Cynic

sin'ik, one of an ancient school of philosophers founded by Antisthenes at Athens about 380 B.C. The doctrines of Antisthenes were probably a severe interpretation of those of Socrates, whose pupil he had been. Antisthenes taught:

The cynics argued that, by acquiring an ability to do without the externalities of life, man becomes assimiliated to God. Diogenes was Antisthenes' most noted pupil. Indeed, he so far outstripped his master that it is his name, rather than that of the true founder of the school, that comes to mind when the cynics are mentioned. The cynics carried their theories so far in trying to live the "simple life" that they not only became ridiculous, but even deserving of the contempt which they received in large measure. In fact, the name cynic is a Greek word meaning "dog," applied to these men because, in their disregard of opinion, they relapsed into carelessness and slovenly manners, and even into neglect of decency. On account of the cynic's scorn of social customs and other people's views, the word cynic has come to mean one who sees a selfish motive in all actions, and hence finds little to commend. A cynical person is therefore one who has little regard for the finer feelings or respect for the motives of others. In place of principle, he recognizes policy. See Stoics

The cynic is one who never sees a good quality in a man, and never fails to see a bad one. He is the human owl, vigilant in darkness and blind to light, musing for vermin, and never seeing noble game. The cynic puts all human actions into only two classes--openly bad, and secretly bad. . . If Mr. A is pronounced a religious man, he will reply: yes, on Sundays. Mr. B has just joined the church: certainly; the elections are coming on. The minister of the gospel is called an example of diligence: it is his trade. Such a man is generous: of other men's money. This man is obliging: to lull suspicion and cheat you. That man is upright: because he is green.--Henry Ward Beecher.