Cynicism Quote by Timothy Snyder
““What is truth?" Sometimes people ask this question because they wish to do nothing. Generic cynicism makes us feel hip and alternative even as we slip along with our fellow citizens into a morass of indifference. It is your ability to discern facts that makes you an individual, and our collective trust in common knowledge that makes us a society.””
About This Quote
Source Book: On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder, 2017
The quote warns that cynicism can mask inaction, emphasizing that discerning facts preserves individuality while shared knowledge sustains society.
In simple terms: Cynicism can hide laziness; facts keep us unique and societies functional.
Key Takeaway
Question facts, trust knowledge.
Themes
individualism
society
truth
Mood
reflective
critical
concerned
Type
philosophical
political
motivational
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- education
- media consumption
- community building
Key Concepts
critical thinking
civic responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate healthy skepticism from harmful cynicism?
- What role does factual literacy play in your community?
A Different Perspective
Cynicism may also protect against manipulation, not just promote indifference.
