FILE - In this July 15, 1979, file photo, President Jimmy Carter delivers his energy speech, which became known as the "malaise" speech, on television. When Carter felt beset by pessimism amid the energy crisis in 1979, he gave a startling speech warning that a “crisis of confidence” posed a fundamental threat to U.S. democracy. With a mix of alarm and dismay, President Barack Obama has started musing about the dangers of cynicism in nearly every major public appearance. The cautionary note has showed up in speeches to students and civil rights groups, at Democratic fundraisers, even in his meeting with Pope Francis. (AP Photo/Dale G. Young, File)