"What is a cynic? A man who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing"
- Oscar Wilde
About this Quote
This quote by Oscar Wilde is a commentary on the nature of cynicism. A cynic is someone who is excessively important and cynical, typically viewing the world in an unfavorable light. They are typically seen as having a seasoned outlook on life, and are quick to mention the defects in any circumstance. Wilde's quote recommends that a cynic is someone who is overly concentrated on the materialistic elements of life, and is not able to value the intangible worths that life needs to offer. They are so concentrated on the monetary value of things that they are not able to recognize the real value of life experiences, relationships, and emotions. In essence, a cynic is someone who is unable to appreciate the appeal of life, and rather concentrates on the financial cost of everything.
"If the present Congress errs in too much talking, how can it be otherwise in a body to which the people send one hundred and fifty lawyers, whose trade it is to question everything, yield nothing, and talk by the hour?"
