Distinguishing Cynicism from Skepticism

When examining the group dynamic, noting the differences between skepticism and cynicism proves to sustain the well-being of one's organization. Identifying these key characteristics aids in improving the functioning of your group, increases the rate of problem-resolution time, and either cultivates your opportunities or separates the wheat from the chaff. Skeptics ask questions to find a resolution, because they believe in people and want to do better. Cynics incessantly criticize, without a belief in or consideration for others.

"Everything must be doubted." - Karl Marx

Skeptics help in a multitude of ways, because they seek to improve the well-being of the whole. It often depends on the outlook of the individual, and sometimes even skepticism can quickly turn to cynicism. Just take a breather, have some lunch, and approach the opportunity when you find a sound mind. Some take cynicism to a whole new level, and it is quite obvious no resolution is desired. These individuals increase the toxicity of the environment, and can really cause great harm to the group dynamic.

Cynics cause the rate of problem-resolution to decline, directly in relation to the lack of intention towards finding said resolution. This is exemplified by radical members of Congress, who only seek to defy anything proposed by anyone other than themselves and their "groupies". Why would one vote for someone(s) who want(s) only money, and to take it from you? Skeptics may hesitate, because not every new and fantastical idea is worth pursuing. Examples of this include subsidies for mega-corporations and fossil fuels, yet good ideas of free education or healthcare, for example, are often overlooked. If you really want something to work, you need all aspects working at their best. You are a member of society, and you matter.

A decision remains as to possible responses toward skepticism and cynicism. Some cynics necessitate cultivation to transform into invaluable skeptics - seeking to question for improvement. Maybe they require a mentor, or a proper direction - motivated by their passions. Or perhaps they are not a right fit for the company you seek, and need to refine themselves a bit more in order to produce the desired results. You catch more flies with honey, honey.

"What is a cynic? A man who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing." - Oscar Wilde

Personally, I do believe in people. I believe that when people make up their minds to communicate and seek improvement, it spreads like wildfire. Some choose to hate and detract from anyone outside of their perceived "box of acceptable behavior". Others want to help, and perform at their best. They may make mistakes, but they come back stronger than ever. We can do this as individuals, as a community, as a family, as a country and a species. How do you contribute?

P.S. You can start by sharing this if it resonates with you.

"Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence." - Carl Sagan

Sources:

• http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/skepticism

• https://www.linkedin.com/today/post/article/20130506120216-658789-skeptics-vs-cynics-know-which-are-toxic

• http://99u.com/articles/6412/skeptics-vs-cynics-problem-solving-with-a-bias-towards-resolution

• http://www.differencebetween.net/language/words-language/difference-between-cynicism-and-skepticism/

• http://dailynexus.com/2012-05-24/difference-cynicism-skepticism/

• http://english.stackexchange.com/questions/12452/what-is-the-difference-between-skeptical-and-cynical