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Cynics are - beneath it all - only idealists with awkwardly high standards.
Alain De Botton
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Cynics often have high expectations that lead to their disillusionment with the world.

This quote suggests that cynicism is a covering for deeper idealism. Cynics may outwardly criticize and dismiss the world around them, but their negative outlook often stems from unfulfilled aspirations and a longing for higher ideals that they believe society fails to meet.

Themes

CynicismIdealismStandardsExpectationsDisillusionment

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about overcoming negativity and striving for ideals.

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Quote by Alain De Botton | QuoteProject