Naïve cynicism is a cognitive bias where individuals expect others to be more egocentric than they actually are. This belief often leads to the assumption that others act out of self-interest rather than altruism, which contrasts with one's own perception of impartiality. The theory suggests that people hold a biased view of others, believing that while they themselves act rationally, others are influenced by personal biases in their judgments and decisions.
During the Cold War, U.S. political leaders, including former congressman Floyd Spence, exhibited naïve cynicism by dismissing a Russian SALT treaty proposal simply because it originated from the Russian side, reflecting an assumption that the Russians could not act in a way that might also serve U.S. interests.
To overcome naïve cynicism, it's helpful to view others as part of one's in-group and recognize instances where cooperation exists, fostering trust and reducing negative assumptions about others' motives.