Cynicism

Cynicism. What is it's purpose in our modern society? It can be both good and bad, but only in excess.  I have many people in my life that are cynical to the point of absurdity. There must be a balance, for everyone hates an optimist, but everyone hates a pessimist. 

Cynicism can be good.  In a day and age where so many things are faulty, such as invalid internet sources and facts, it is good to be a little cynical. It can save you a lot of time on research, or even save your life. In science, it's always very good to be cynical. In philosophy, there is also a place for cynicism.  But it's not necessarily called cynicism, but more of a questioning view on everything.  I think cynical people are halfway there, being that they question lots of things.  The problem is, they question, but look for the negative answer.  They need to think and live more objectively from negativity.  

Cynicism can also be very bad.  For starters, it can make you come across as a dick. If you're always questioning what people say or think, and assuming the worst, people are going to be annoyed, and you'll be trying to bring them down.  I know some very close people who are quite cynical.  Although these things can be overlooked, it can be hard to even hold a simple conversation with them. They come off as judgemental and very pessimistic.  

I do not think that I am a cynical person.  I'm actually a very cheerful person.  I do question lots of things, but I don't necessarily look for the negative answer. I like to think that everything has a positive outcome, but I'm also reasonable to understand that this isn't always the case.  I think if people understood this difference, it would make everyone a lot more pleasant to be around.