Rachel Feltman: For Scientific American’s Science Quickly, this is Rachel Feltman.
No one wants to be a sucker. But do most of us go too far in our efforts to avoid naivety? In other words, are we all a little overly cynical?
My guest today is Jamil Zaki, a professor of psychology at Stanford University. He’s also the author of a new book called Hope for Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness. He’s here today to tell us what the research says about cynicism—and how we can harness the power of hope to live better, happier lives.
Zaki explained that he decided to write a book about cynicism because he found himself becoming overwhelmed by it. Despite his background in studying empathy and kindness, Zaki, like many others, sometimes struggles to trust others and questions the goodness of humanity. This led him to delve into the topic and explore ways to combat cynicism.
Zaki, who is a behavioral scientist teaching at Stanford University and running the Social Neuroscience Lab, described cynicism as a “disease of social health.” He emphasized that cynicism can hinder people’s ability to connect with others, leading to loneliness and negative impacts on mental and physical health.
When discussing the rise of cynicism in society, Zaki pointed out that trust in institutions and other people has declined over the years. Factors such as media consumption, especially the prevalence of negative news on social media, contribute to the perception that the world is getting worse and people are inherently untrustworthy.
Despite the common belief that cynics are more astute and realistic, research suggests otherwise. Studies have shown that cynics actually perform worse on cognitive tests and are less adept at spotting liars compared to more trusting individuals. Zaki highlighted the misconception that cynicism equates to intelligence or social wisdom, debunking the notion that distrust leads to better judgment.
Overall, Zaki’s book aims to challenge the prevailing cynicism in society and promote a more hopeful and empathetic outlook. By understanding the science behind human goodness, Zaki believes that individuals can cultivate optimism and foster better relationships with others. In a world where cynicism may seem pervasive, Zaki offers a beacon of hope for those seeking a more positive and compassionate perspective. Cynics are often seen as social geniuses, with their ability to see through people and situations. However, recent research suggests that cynicism may not be as beneficial as we once thought. In fact, cynics may be doing more harm than good in the long run.
According to researchers, cynics tend to have a strong belief in their assumptions about people and the world. They are convinced that people are inherently terrible, and they only seek out evidence that supports this belief. This closed-off mindset prevents cynics from being open to new information and learning about the world. In essence, cynics think like lawyers, always looking to defend their negative assumptions rather than like scientists, who are open to new evidence and willing to change their beliefs.
On the other hand, skeptics approach the world with a more open mind. They are willing to question their beliefs and seek out more information before forming an opinion. Skeptics are agile and adaptable, as they are not tied to their assumptions. Hopeful skepticism combines the scientific mindset of skepticism with an understanding that our assumptions are often skewed towards the negative. By being open to evidence and willing to challenge their beliefs, hopeful skeptics are better equipped to see the world in a more balanced light.
Many people fear that being too optimistic or hopeful is a form of privilege or naivety. They believe that focusing on the positive ignores the very real problems in the world. However, research suggests that cynicism is not a radical emotion but rather a tool of the status quo. Cynics often believe that change is impossible, leading to a sense of dark complacency where they do not feel the need to take action. In contrast, hopeful skeptics are more likely to engage in social movements and work towards positive change.
For those looking to overcome cynicism and adopt a more hopeful mindset, there are a few key steps to take. Firstly, it is important to fact-check cynical thoughts and feelings. Challenge yourself to question why you believe certain things about people or situations. By being open to new information and willing to challenge your assumptions, you can begin to shift towards a more hopeful perspective.
Ultimately, hopeful skepticism is not about being blindly optimistic but rather about being open to evidence and willing to challenge your beliefs. By adopting a more hopeful mindset, you can better navigate difficult times and work towards positive change in both your personal life and the world around you. When it comes to trusting others, it’s important to consider the evidence we have before drawing broad conclusions about humanity. Sometimes, our lack of evidence may be due to external factors such as being in a bad mood or feeling hungry. It’s crucial to give people a chance to show their true selves and build trust gradually.
Research has shown that putting faith in others can actually make them more trustworthy. By allowing people to express themselves and giving them opportunities to prove themselves, we can strengthen our connections with others. This could involve sharing personal struggles with a friend, engaging in conversations with strangers, or delegating responsibilities to colleagues at work.
Additionally, practicing positive gossip can help combat cynicism and negativity. Instead of focusing on negative interactions, try to highlight acts of human kindness and share them with others. This not only uplifts your own spirits but also spreads positivity to those around you.
In the realm of human behavior research, a current focus is on combating loneliness among young adults. With a growing disconnection crisis in this demographic, it’s essential to raise awareness about the desire for connection that young adults share. By providing them with data on the prevalence of this need for connection, researchers aim to encourage young adults to reach out and foster meaningful relationships.
Overall, fostering trust and connection with others is a continuous process that requires effort and openness. By challenging cynicism, practicing positive interactions, and acknowledging the shared desire for connection, we can build stronger bonds with those around us and create a more positive and connected community. the perspective of a travel blogger about the top destinations to visit in 2021.
As travel slowly starts to pick up again in 2021, many people are eager to explore new destinations and make up for lost time. If you’re looking for some inspiration on where to go next, here are some top destinations that should be on your radar this year.
1. Iceland – Known for its stunning landscapes, Iceland is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. From the iconic Blue Lagoon to the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to explore in this beautiful country.
2. Portugal – With its charming cities, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine, Portugal is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Lisbon or relaxing on the sandy shores of the Algarve, there’s something for everyone in this diverse country.
3. Japan – If you’re looking for a mix of tradition and modernity, Japan is the perfect destination for you. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, there’s no shortage of cultural experiences to be had in this fascinating country.
4. Australia – With its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife, Australia is a dream destination for many travelers. Whether you’re diving the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the Outback, or sipping wine in the Barossa Valley, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had down under.
5. Greece – Known for its ancient ruins, picturesque islands, and delicious food, Greece is a classic destination that never goes out of style. Whether you’re exploring the Acropolis in Athens or relaxing on the beaches of Santorini, there’s no shortage of beauty to be found in this Mediterranean paradise.
6. Costa Rica – If you’re looking for adventure, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for you. From zip-lining through the rainforest to surfing on the Pacific coast, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities to be had in this Central American gem.
7. New Zealand – With its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and adventurous spirit, New Zealand is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking in the Southern Alps, exploring the glowworm caves of Waitomo, or bungee jumping in Queenstown, there’s no shortage of thrills to be had in this beautiful country.
No matter where you choose to go in 2021, be sure to do your research and follow any travel restrictions or guidelines in place. With a little planning and flexibility, you can make 2021 a year to remember with unforgettable travel experiences in these top destinations.
