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In this brief commentary, Daniel Pink challenges the popular myth that cynicism is linked to higher intelligence. He cites research showing that individuals who score high on cynicism tend to perform worse on cognitive and academic assessments. The speaker argues that cynicism often reflects closed‑mindedness rather than brilliance, and highlights that openness—toward new ideas, experiences, and perspectives—is a far stronger predictor of intellectual ability. The core takeaway is a warning against the "cynical genius" illusion and a recommendation to value openness of mind as a hallmark of smarter thinking.
