Quotes about Cynicism

Pessimism is only the name that men of weak nerve give to wisdom.

I could never be cynical, not that I think there's anything wrong with cynicism. I think it can be quite funny at times. But I just feel so grateful to be alive.

Sometimes the curses of the godless sound better than the hallelujahs of the pious.

Most people see the world as a threatening place, and, because they do, the world turns out, indeed, to be a threatening place.

Some people find fault like there is a reward for it

No matter how cynical you become, it's never enough to keep up.

"Sometimes," said she, "I think that is my permanent feeling towards people. I like the world, the sky and the earth and the greater mystery beyond. But people—yes, they are all monkeys to me."

instead of allowing the enormity of the world's sufferings to make me unhappy, I have allowed it to increase the depth of my gratitude for the blessed life that I have been allowed to lead. You can look at the amount of suffering in the world and become bitter (this world stinks), cynical (nothing matters, it's all just a roulette game), or hedonistic (with all this suffering, I'll rack up all the fun I can) — or you can be grateful for your blessings.

Despair can come from deep grief, but it can also be a defense against the risks of bitter disappointment and shattering heartbreak. Resignation and cynicism are easier, more self-soothing postures that do not require raw vulnerability and tragic risk of hope. To choose hope is to step firmly forward into the howling wind, baring one's chest to the elements, knowing that, in time, the storm will pass.

Americans are a very backward people, with all the real virtues of a backward people; the patriarchal simplicity and human dignity of a democracy, and a respect for labor uncorrupted by cynicism.

The harshest people I've met over the years have had two things in common: they don't fully trust anybody, and they view relationships as a means to an end.

Cynicism dressed like a security guard, making me believe that if I hoped for less, it would protect me and prevent more pain.