Criticism and Cynicism are both expressions of doubt.
In a recent conversation with a client I was presented with an idea and asked if I thought the idea would work. In that moment I had my doubts but what I did next determined whether I shared my doubts as criticism or cynicism.
I asked the client to explain their understanding of the product offering. Once I listened to my client’s explanation and responded from my knowledge of the subject, I was able to express my doubts critically instead of cynically.
Criticisms is doubt informed by curiosity and a knowledge of a subject matter.
Cynicism is doubt resulting from ignorance and antiquated ways.
