Cynicism

Cynicism is a mindset characterized by skepticism about people's motives and the belief that individuals are primarily motivated by self-interest rather than genuine kindness or integrity. Cynics often doubt the sincerity of others’ actions and may assume that people act primarily for personal gain, leading to distrust or a negative outlook on human behavior. While it can serve as a protective mechanism against disappointment, excessive cynicism may hinder trust and meaningful connections. It is different from healthy skepticism, which involves questioning without necessarily dismissing the sincerity or good intentions of others.