I loved this one. Take the test - it's quick, if not a little predictable. My results . . .
| You Are 48% Cynical |
 Yes, you are cynical, but more than anything, you're a realist. You see what's screwed up in the world, but you also take time to remember what's right. |
Don't you think we get "more realistic" about the world as we get older? I believe a fairly wise appreciation of human nature lends to a realistic view of the world around us - and yes, sometimes attributing self-interest to the motives of others IS wise. By definition, cynicism assumes that what others do is self-serving.
Being realistic assumes that one understands that there are many reasons a person is motivated to action INCLUDING self-interest. Do you recall the saying, "Look out for Number One"? Perhaps it became popular because we are naively surprised when others demonstrate their interest is NOT in us! And we react defensively. Imagine that.
On the other hand...It's possible to look out for Number One so exclusively that society becomes endangered. Altruism is not a genetic trait. We are taught kindness and generosity as part of our socialization. I think a certain amount of cynicism about human nature is acceptable, but when it grows to the point that there is no room for anyone else in the world, surely that's a bad thing.
Interesting, isn't it, that we are not far apart in the degree of our cynicism?
Buffy--I disagree. Altruism is a survival value. Without it, the human race would have disappeared long ago. (I'm an old woman and I'm entitled to my opinion. Nyah, nyah!)