The science of pessimism

Pessimists are only called that when they're wrong. When they're right, they're called prophets. ;)
 
Neat. But I'd like science to once point out a positive for pessimism. They are always negative towards pessimists but there has to be a evolutionary advantage to pessimism, unless it is just a stopgap to prevent self destruction, then the ten year less lifespan would be a bonus.
 
It's interesting that they seem to think that pessimism means you'll be depressed.

But I cannot resist this: It's not that I enjoy being cynical, it's just that it so greatly improves my ability to predict the future.
 
I think the optimum for survival of our species is to have a mix of optimists, realists, and pessimists.
 
The glass in the article.

Optimist: Glass is half full!
Pessimist: Glass is half empty ):-
Engineer: Glass is completely full. Approx half with a clear liquid, and half with a clear gas.
 
The title of this thread is an oxymoron at best. Seriously, when has psychology been science?


This says it all "St Thomas' hospital in London, has been trying to answer fundamental questions about how our personality is formed. Why are some people more positive about life than others?"


I really can't believe the x-files studies keep gaining ground as hard science.
 
bnt83 said:
The title of this thread is an oxymoron at best. Seriously, when has psychology been science?


This says it all "St Thomas' hospital in London, has been trying to answer fundamental questions about how our personality is formed. Why are some people more positive about life than others?"


I really can't believe the x-files studies keep gaining ground as hard science.
Click to expand...

Psychology perhaps, but genetics is a very hard science and have made actual inroads into the chemistry of personality.
 
docmirror said:
The glass in the article.

Optimist: Glass is half full!
Pessimist: Glass is half empty ):-
Engineer: Glass is completely full. Approx half with a clear liquid, and half with a clear gas.
Click to expand...

or Engineer: The glass is the wrong size
 
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