[kstenerud]

Because it's easier to appear intelligent when you criticize.

Criticism signals that you've found something wrong with the system (which implies secret knowledge, which makes you important and insightful).

Cynicism gives the appearance of the next level up, like the exasperated person who grew tired of yelling "Wake up, sheeple!" and now simply looks for grim solace in other intelligent people who can understand his cryptic signals (which identifies them as fellow intelligent people).

It's incredibly easy to fake this, and it makes you look intelligent, so people will keep doing it because humans are evolved to seek public validation and importance (because historically, importance grants a higher opportunity to monopolize more of society's resources, giving you a survival edge to pass on your genes).

TLDR: It has everything to do with social signaling and the appearance of social importance.

[WaitWaitWha]

I slightly would like to expand what you are saying, that you are cynical about cynics. ;)

In your description the individuals appear cynical "to seek public validation and importance" and as "social signaling and the appearance of social importance".

I believe most do not fall into what you are describing. But, it is anecdotal, my personal opinion.

I am cynical because I am jaded and in general distrust the internet and distrust of the integrity or professed motives of those on the internet. [paraphrased from the American Heritage Dictionary]

Alas, I am cynical because I truly am jaded. I am distrustful because of my experience online, not because I need validation. I am aware I need social interaction, but I do not need anything from anyone. To ingeminate "honey badger Don't give a 5h!7". :D

[kstenerud]

Yes, this is the other side of it. But be careful: Becoming jaded often becomes a way of giving up, and that's not good (for you or for society).

Often it comes from your vision becoming distorted due to the news cycle (which churns out depressing hopelessness like sausage because it keeps you glued to their channels). Don't lose your morale; turn that shit off. There's plenty to be hopeful and grateful for. I honestly think we're living in some of the best times ever.

Being a bit skeptical is good. Paralyzing cynicism is not.

[WaitWaitWha]

I appreciate the call out, thank you. I am sufficiently grounded in my world view and have been through enough that the town criers rarely sway me. And yes, I am plenty old to have a (literal) list of things to be very grateful!

[slalomskiing]

That actually makes a lot of sense