Naive cynicism
The tendency to expect other people to be more selfish and biased than they really are, while seeing ourselves as fair. We read self-interest into others' actions even when there are other explanations.
In everyday life
In a group project, a student assumes teammates will exaggerate their share of the work, while believing his own tally is accurate.
When your roommate offers to cook dinner for you, your first thought is that they must want a favor in return.
Why your mind does this
We see our own intentions, reasons, and circumstances from the inside, while we only see other people's actions from the outside. Trusting our own view helps us act with confidence and stay alert to people who might take advantage of us.
Its family, in 30 seconds: Others' flaws
How to spot it
Ask yourself whether you are assuming a selfish motive without any evidence for it.
How to counter it
Before assuming the worst about someone's motives, list at least two generous or neutral explanations for what they did.
Same family: Others' flaws
- Bias blind spot
- Naive cynicism
- Naive realism