CYNICISM:

an attitude of scornful or jaded negativity of the professed motives of others. (Dictionary.com)

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The growth in popularity of 24/7 radio talk shows and cable TV has brought with it a new communication sin: cynicism. For a long time we have expected sarcasm, biting humor and strong criticism from such sources. But in the past few years, it would seem, there has been a tendency for banter by talk show hosts, their guests, and call-in patrons to morph into what only can be described as cynicism. It is aimed at individuals, institutions, and governments. It is blatant, and it is being rewarded by listenership and viewership which promotes it, quotes it, and tends to forget that this is not the 11:00 news; this is nothing more than entertainment and the use of any method to gain ratings.

Criticism of those in leadership in our country and the institutions from which they function is perfectly acceptable. As a matter of fact, it is welcomed and honored. In many cases it has been known to be effective in changing hearts and minds of leaders. But cynicism is a mind-set which destroys the integrity of a person or institution and challenges people of like mind to dismiss them as being bearers of socialism, communism, naziism, jihad or other such titles (take your pick.) It worms its way into the minds of those who are confused, paranoid, or suffering from other emotional factors.

Cynicism is not an acceptable framework for public commentary. In the definition quoted above the key words are scornful and jaded. Neither are words which are respected in normal interaction between and among people, and they are certainly not respected in the realm of public media. They are tools for those who are weak already, and lead to anger and violence.

The recent surge in the purchase of weapons by the people of the United States is almost directly attributable to the belief on the parts of many that the government of this nation is in the hands of those who would destroy it and replace it with a government in which people's rights and liberties are compromised. (I find that ironic given the action of the last administration, in which people's rights and liberties were trampled in the name of "national security.") This mind-set is created and nourished by the cynicism of those appearing on talk shows, whether on radio or TV.

Cynicism must be acknowledged for what it is, and for what it accomplishes. Diatribes which cruelly attack the personal characteristics of leaders of the country, using inflammatory language and half-truths are, in themselves, weapons. Cynicism cannot (and should not) be removed by legislation. Rather, the public must be encouraged to use good listener skills in distinguishing between news, legitimate commentary, and cynicism.

(My apologies to those who commented on the first draft of this posting. In an attempt to correct a spelling error, I erased the entire posting accidentally.)