Cynicism

Cynicism is a philosophical school of thought that originated in Ancient Greece, and is often associated with the philosopher Diogenes of Sinope. The term is also used to refer to a general attitude of distrust or disbelief in the sincerity or goodness of human motives and actions.

History

The Cynics were a group of philosophers who emerged in the 4th century BC. They rejected conventional social norms and material possessions, advocating instead for a life of virtue in accordance with nature. The most famous of the Cynics was Diogenes of Sinope, who is said to have lived in a large ceramic jar in Athens and to have once told Alexander the Great to move out of his sunlight.

Modern usage

In modern usage, the term "cynicism" is often used to refer to a general attitude of distrust or disbelief in the sincerity or goodness of human motives and actions. This is somewhat different from the original philosophical meaning of the term, which was more about rejecting societal norms and materialism.

See also

• Skepticism
• Pessimism
• Nihilism

References

Cynicism Resources
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