What common belief does cynicism often reflect?

Cynicism typically reflects the idea that all human actions are self-motivated. This perspective suggests that individuals often act out of self-interest rather than genuine concern for others. Cynics tend to be skeptical about the motivations behind people's actions, viewing them through a lens of doubt and mistrust. Such a viewpoint contrasts sharply with beliefs like altruism or trust in humanity, which assert that people can and do act selflessly or out of goodwill. While hope for future kindness also opposes cynicism, the central tenet of cynicism is indeed that motivations are primarily self-serving, making the correct answer a reflection of this fundamental belief.