Chapter

The Power of Optimism
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02:57 - 11:48 (08:51)

Notes written by new optimists were found to be more persuasive than those written by new cynics in convincing people who disagree about gun control. Additionally, research showed that cynics were worse at detecting lies in interviews compared to non-cynics.

Clips
Cynics tend to perform poorly on cognitive tests, earn less money, and lose more in negotiations compared to non-cynics.
02:57 - 06:41 (03:43)
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Cynicism
Summary

Cynics tend to perform poorly on cognitive tests, earn less money, and lose more in negotiations compared to non-cynics. Despite this, 70% of people still believe that cynics are smarter.

Chapter
The Power of Optimism
Episode
How to escape the cynicism trap | Jamil Zaki
Podcast
TED Talks Daily
The author conducted a study on college students' cynicism about empathy and found that non-cynics were able to make ideologically diverse friends.
06:41 - 08:21 (01:40)
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Empathy
Summary

The author conducted a study on college students' cynicism about empathy and found that non-cynics were able to make ideologically diverse friends. Empathy is crucial in fostering connections and moving towards a less divided country.

Chapter
The Power of Optimism
Episode
How to escape the cynicism trap | Jamil Zaki
Podcast
TED Talks Daily
This podcast discusses the debate of implementing stricter gun laws and the effects of cynicism on our culture.
08:21 - 09:56 (01:35)
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Gun Laws
Summary

This podcast discusses the debate of implementing stricter gun laws and the effects of cynicism on our culture.

Chapter
The Power of Optimism
Episode
How to escape the cynicism trap | Jamil Zaki
Podcast
TED Talks Daily
Empathy is a strength in politics and can persuade people who disagree with your position.
09:56 - 11:48 (01:52)
listen on Spotify
Politics
Summary

Empathy is a strength in politics and can persuade people who disagree with your position. Finding common ground and understanding can lead to progress on important issues like gun control.

Chapter
The Power of Optimism
Episode
How to escape the cynicism trap | Jamil Zaki
Podcast
TED Talks Daily