Cynical Pontification

I recently looked up a word that has been floating around in my brain for years and I never quite knew the definition of. As a studied non college graduate I must fill in the holes of my random self education whenever the chance presents itself. The word in question - pontification. The two definitions are 1, to speak about the laws of the Christian church, ie the duties of a pontiff, a bishop or pope which are to dictate the dogma of the catholic church. - and 2, the act of being Pompously dogmatic or self-important.
This definition reminded me of the two definitions of the word cynic ok 3, but mainly 1 and 2.


1. A member of a sect of ancient Greek philosophers who believed virtue to be the only good and self-control to be the only means of achieving virtue.
2. A person whose outlook is scornfully and often habitually negative.
3. A person who believes all people are motivated by selfishness.


From the original Cynic philosopher to the modern day scornful and habitually negative joe (or joanne). The Greek Cynic (who scorned anyone who didn't live a virtuous lifestyle) seems to have evolved to the modern day unbeliever because ultimately one who tries to live by virtue and self control only grows bitter and disappointed.

So. . . the common use of the word "pontificate" is to speak with a self important and pompous nature but originally was the "respected" word of the church.

Hmmm

Cynical Pontification