Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, Who is the Most Cynical of All?
Neuroscience of cynicism and how a little more trust is just what the world needs
In the heart of Renaissance Italy, a young diplomat named Niccolò Machiavelli crafted what would become a timeless guide to power, The Prince. He advised leaders to appear moral, humane, and faithful, but only so long as it served their interests. If necessary, they should be ready to betray those very values. Machiavelli’s advice resonates today, especially among the cynics in our workplaces, who believe in a similar approach: the world is a harsh, cutthroat arena where success comes from crushing competition and outsmarting others.
We’ve all encountered these cynics — the ones who see hidden motives in every action and believe that life is a game of survival where the strong dominate and the weak perish. Even “being kind” is some sorta of strategy to serve self-interest! But are they right? Is cynicism truly the key to success? Or have we been wrong about the world all along?
I. Do Cynics Really Win in the End?
At first glance, Machiavellian logic seems sound. If everyone is out for themselves, why trust anyone? Cynicism would seem to be a rational response, a shield protecting us from betrayal and failure. However, new behavioral neuroscience research reveals a startling truth: cynicism may be holding us back more than we realize.
In Silicon Valley, for instance, leaders like Steve Jobs — famed for his brilliance and infamous for his ruthlessness — are often held up as icons of success. The legend of the cutthroat visionary who overcomes all odds by sheer force of will has inspired countless others to follow suit. However, the truth is more nuanced. While cynics might secure short-term victories, their long-term success is limited. As it turns out, those who trust and build genuine relationships tend to surpass their more skeptical peers over time.
II. Neuroscience Behind Cynicism and Trust
In a study spanning over a decade, researchers followed individuals to see how cynicism affected their careers. The findings were clear: the salary growth of cynical individuals lagged significantly behind that of their more trusting counterparts. Cynics, on average, saw their earnings grow at barely a third of the rate of non-cynics. The implications go beyond mere financial success — cynics were also less likely to be promoted to leadership positions and reported lower levels of job satisfaction.
Why?
Behavioral neuroscience provides some fascinating insights into this. Trusting individuals are better at building social connections, an essential aspect of professional and personal success. Our brains are wired to respond positively to cooperative behaviors. There are some evolutionary quirks our brains still harbor. for instance, pro-social hormones such as oxytocin, foster connection and social collaboration (as it has been doing for millions of years to foster modern human civilization). Cynical people, on the other hand, often have heightened cortisol levels — the stress hormone — because they are constantly on alert, expecting betrayal or deceit. This chronic state of stress impairs their ability to form meaningful connections, ultimately isolating them in the very environments they’re trying to dominate.
Interestingly, studies on behavior also reveal that trusting individuals are not as naive as cynics might believe. Trusting people aren’t blind to the possibility of betrayal; they simply choose to focus on the potential benefits of collaboration. And the data is on their side — people who trust others are more likely to receive trust in return, creating a positive feedback loop that enhances not only their work environment but also their mental well-being.
One striking study observed two fishing communities in Brazil — one where large-scale teamwork was essential, and another where individual competition reigned supreme. The fishermen who had to rely on each other for success demonstrated higher levels of trust, cooperation, and generosity than those who worked alone. Over time, those in the competitive environment grew more cynical and less trusting, even in non-work-related situations. It was a clear case of an environment-shaping mindset, and it begs the question: are we cultivating our own cynicism without realizing it?
III. The Best Way Out: Shift the Game, Change the Rules
Cynicism, it turns out, may be a trap. It narrows our perspective, isolates us, and hinders long-term success. But how do we break free from this mindset?
The answer lies in recognizing the power of trust and collaboration. It’s not about throwing caution to the wind but recalibrating our approach to others. If we assume good intentions and seek to build alliances, we position ourselves for success in a way that pure competition never could.
In workplaces that prioritize cooperation over competition, people thrive. Take the example of IDEO, a design firm famous for its culture of helping. Employees are encouraged not only to perform well but also to support their colleagues. This “ocean village” mentality, where everyone must work together like fishermen on the open sea, fosters trust and ensures long-term success for both individuals and the team.
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IV. Are You a Cynic? Here’s How to Get It in Check
Do you find yourself constantly questioning others’ motives or assuming the worst? If so, you might be leaning into cynicism more than you realize. But the good news is that cynicism isn’t a fixed trait. Neuroscience suggests that only about 25% of our cynicism is genetic, meaning that our environment and personal choices play a significant role in shaping our worldview.
Here are some actionable tips to help shift your mindset:
Not everyone is a Cynic: Often, we believe that everyone around us is just as cynical as we are, but this is rarely true. Challenge these assumptions by openly discussing values like trust and collaboration with your colleagues. You might be surprised to find that others share your desire for a more positive, cooperative environment.
Be the First to Trust: Break the cycle of distrust by being the first to extend trust to others. This doesn’t mean you have to be naive — set boundaries if needed — but allow yourself to believe that people can and will reciprocate. Neuroscience shows that trust fosters more trust, creating a virtuous cycle of collaboration.
Shift from Competition to Cooperation: Instead of viewing your workplace as a battlefield, think of it as a team sport. Even in competitive industries, long-term success comes from building alliances, not burning bridges.
Manage Stress: Cynicism often arises from stress. Practice mindfulness or other stress-reduction techniques to help keep your cortisol levels in check and prevent the negative spiral of suspicion and distrust.
Cultivate Empathy: Empathy is the antidote to cynicism. Try to understand where others are coming from and acknowledge that most people, like you, are trying to do their best.
V. Conclusion: A Little More Trust is Just What The World Needs
In a world that often feels divided and competitive, it’s tempting to turn inward and shield ourselves with cynicism. But the research is clear: success isn’t a zero-sum game. Those who trust, collaborate, and seek out mutual benefits end up not only succeeding more but also enjoying the journey.
So, the next time you feel the urge to put up walls and assume the worst, ask yourself — am I playing the wrong game? A little more trust could be the key to unlocking not just your own potential but also the collective success of those around you.
The world doesn’t need more cynics. It needs more leaders who understand the power of trust. Are you ready to be one of them?
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