"It's not that the Irish are cynical. It's rather that they have a wonderful lack of respect for everything and everybody"

In this quote, Brendan Behan is suggesting that the Irish individuals are not always negative, however rather they have an unique quality of not taking things too seriously. They have a carefree mindset and do not hold things or people in high regard. This lack of respect can be viewed as a favorable characteristic, as it allows the Irish to not be easily influenced or swayed by social norms or expectations. It also permits them to approach life with a sense of humor and not get bogged down by negativeness. In general, Behan is highlighting the Irish's capability to not take themselves or others too seriously, which can be seen as a refreshing and exceptional quality.