Jamil Zaki: How to escape the cynicism trap | TED

Some days, it's hard to be optimistic. But cynicism -- the idea that people are inherently selfish, greedy and dishonest -- is making humanity lonelier and more divided, says psychologist Jamil Zaki. Presenting fascinating research on cooperation, empathy and trust, Zaki makes the scientific case for optimism and shows us how to break out of the cynicism trap.

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[jasmin.ahmetbasic]

"Cynicism is not a system upgrade, it's mental malware." This is true on so many levels, and being the IT guy, this got me. Power of TED is beautiful.

[TheReshuffle]

There is a difference between cynicism and realism. But realism isn’t based in negativity, but rather, in neutrality. This was a great talk!

[LordMondegrene]

I have been mired in cynicism for more than a decade. I wish I could give this talk more likes, and hearts. It helped me.

[phlasaban]

i have been stuck in this horrible mindset for 3 years now.. this is a very good talk i am grateful for it and will try

[gstech]

Parenting and surrounding atmosphere plays a key role.. the feeling of ignorance and left out as a child builds trust issues gradually. Lack of emotional communication while growing also weighs in.
Being aware of this state of mind, it takes immense energy to break mental barriers everyday. Choice of ignorance and selective response is easiest way out..

[tobypark]

This is one of the best lectures I’ve seen in years!

[ilariapoloni]

this is so much important, it could change the world completely

[KittenCece]

I cry listening to the song “Most people are good” because cynicism has consumed my hopeful, optimistic heart.
It feels like a painful affirmation. Listening to it regularly is deeply important to me. It feels like cleansing darkness from my soul.
Being reminded that being the change you want to see in the world CAN generate waves of positive change helps too. Thank you

[ryanunderwood]

Cynicism is a learned self-protective behavior.

[ArumWaharatri]

Jamil means beauty/handsome
Zaki means smart
MasyaAllah, may your parents' prayer always be with you

[arguelles]

Everyone needs to see this! there is a lot of biases and having this frame of mind would help to get to the root of the needed solutions with collaboration

[ArkansasLee]

It's not a trap. People need to realise that this is reality, and you are meant to be this way. If you have a " bad" life, It's what you deserve because reality is like this for you.

[NathalieLazo]

Extraordinary person reading this, you are not define by your circumstance or your past. It’s not what happened to you that determines your success in life; it is how you deal with those circumstances that determines your success in life! You are strong, you are capable and practice forgiveness (Forgiveness is for you) and gratitude everyday. This will change the course of your life forever! Love you always and I believe in you wholeheartedly ✨❤️ - Nat

[jjutt]

That was awesome, I really needed to hear that. Very well expressed and I can definitely attest to that quicksand analogy.

[rugbybeef]

Thank you. I needed this today, and will be sharing it with friends and family with whom I have lately been lamenting how cynical I have become after dealing with city government for 9 months to little avail.

I hope that folks are just a little more patient, forgiving, and gracious with others, especially when there is little that would preclude them from doing so. All things being equal, others chose to act in good faith. And generous are those who even when all things are not equal, they continue to act in good faith with all.

This core belief is not taught in a civics class and is opposite what economists would have you believe about a "rational actor". And yet, all human religions underscore this core belief that we should uplift our neighbor, lend aid the poor, and care for the sick. It is what led these religions to millennia long success over religions and sects without these core tenets.

A cynic might ask why should I or where does the giving end, especially if you don't know it will return to you when you are yourself in need. I would ask why not give what you feel able to and trust that others will do so as well. It is comparable to buying a lottery ticket except this one pay outs in improved humanity for all the more who play.

[muhammadumernaseervisiting]

Cynicism is more common in developing countries because resources are scarcer. I am being a cynic by saying that. To all saints and philanthropists in the world, I love and respect you.

[aliciasmomentsinnature]

​We must keep open to each other and when we actually listen to each other and meet our shared needs then we can all be empowered to seek and give the skills and tools which are the shields that actually work to not only protect us but to fulfill the potential in each of us ❤

[satorimystic]

"Knowledge and Love are One ... and the Measure is Suffering."

[cocinaresponsable]

Like he said, this could not be a panacea, but for sure it's a start. Thanks for sharing with us that it's possible to change and shape our world.

[JoseRodriguez-rwbx]

Loved it!!. Very motivational. Thank you!!