22/08/2026
Request:
Please read my brief article given below:
+++++++++++++++++++++++
Are We a Cynical Nation?
By: Dr. Fakhr-ul-Islam
Cynicism, or negative thinking, is a syndrome that leads to sarcasm, suspicion, and distrust. Once a person or a group is engulfed by cynicism, they lose confidence in individuals and the system at large. This disorder is not only detrimental to mental peace, but it also ruins trust. Over time, this evolves into a society where peace and tranquility are replaced by conflict and chaos. Any society stained with pessimism falls into a dungeon of inactivity, which ultimately halts development.
Every society or socio-political environment has weaknesses that need to be addressed. However, the best course of action is to maintain a balanced view, taking into consideration both positive and negative aspects. In this way, one is able to draw a balance sheet of the problems and prospects of that particular society. A balanced approach generates creativity and hope for the future.
The question is: how can we ensure a balanced approach? It requires the input of many stakeholders, relying on strong family bonds, an effective educational system, a proactive civil society, religious institutions, and the supervisory role of state institutions. While these stakeholders contribute according to their capacity, the fact remains that their current role is far from satisfactory. Our state must ensure justice and meritocracy. In turn, we as a nation must actively promote positivity and hope.
Furthermore, in an era where digital media often amplifies despair, cultivating critical thinking and constructive dialogue is more essential than ever. By channeling collective frustrations into civic engagement, we can transform a cynical society into a resilient one—recognizing that a thriving nation is built not on the absence of problems, but on the shared conviction that they can be solved.
Note: The author is the former Director of Research at the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) Islamabad, former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), and is currently a Professor of Political Science and Pakistan Studies at Qurtuba University.
21/08/2026
20/08/2026
19/08/2026
17/08/2026
16/08/2026
15/08/2026
15/08/2026