A "misanthrope" is a person who generally dislikes or distrusts humanity. This attitude can stem from various reasons, such as negative experiences or a belief that people are inherently selfish or flawed. Misanthropes often prefer solitude or the company of a few close friends rather than large social gatherings. The term is often associated with literary figures, such as Molière's character in the play "The Misanthrope." In this work, the protagonist, Alceste, expresses disdain for societal norms and the hypocrisy he perceives in others. Misanthropy can manifest in different ways, from mild cynicism to extreme withdrawal from society.