Cynicism

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This article is about the current understanding of the word cynicism. For information about the ancient Greek school of philosophy, see Cynic.

Cynicism (Greek κυνισμός) was originally the philosophy of a group of ancient Greeks called the Cynics, founded by Antisthenes.

Currently, the word 'cynicism' generally describes the opinions of those who maintain that self-interest is the primary motive of human behavior, and are disinclined to rely upon sincerity, human virtue, or altruism as motivations.

[edit] History of cynicism

Cynicism was the ancient Greek philosophy, primarily concerned with virtue, whose followers were known as "The Dog Philosophers."^{[citation needed]} They believed virtue was the only necessity for happiness, and that it was entirely sufficient for attaining happiness. The Cynics followed this philosophy to the extent of neglecting everything not furthering their perfection of virtue and attainment of happiness, thus, the title 'Cynics', derived from the Greek word 'kuon', 'dog' in English, was assigned them because they lived like dogs —neglecting society, personal hygiene, family obligations, pursuing money, et cetera— to lead entirely virtuous, and, thus, happy lives ^[1].

They did not escape Socrates' ridicule.

After his enlightenment, Diogenes traveled throughout Greece, almost naked and without provisions; enjoying the sun, the warm weather, the beaches, and so gathered about him thousands of pilgrims who listened to his talks, pregnant with sarcastic remarks about society. Even Alexander the Great, en route to Asian campaigns once went to him. Diogenes advised him to renounce conquest, however, Alexander declined, with "resignation", believing his destiny already written.

When Diogenes died, a 'dog' (symbol of cynicism) was carved to his tombstone.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] Modern cynicism

Typically, the modern cynic is greatly skeptical of social norms, especially those of a purpose more ritualistic than practical, and tend to question the validity of much popular belief, morality, and wisdom. They prefer awareness of social and world matters to a frivolous, care-free attitude to life. Cynics center on the ideals of human nature: inevitable patterns of behaviour and thought, placing oneself first, stereotypes, and intolerance.

Despite the mainstream society's negative portrayal of cynics, some philosophers argue that they are people who “refuse to look through rose-colored glasses”, and do not fear openly criticising society's typical behaviours.

Extreme cynicism in a person may lead cynics to view themselves as de-personalized, self-serving inhabitants of a meaningless, fictitious, shallow world.

In modern Greek slang, Starhidismos is the word describing a cynical attitude to life and one's relation to the State and society.^{[citation needed]}