[ExI] Wash post comment

[BillK]

On Mon, May 21, 2012 at 10:21 PM, Jeff Davis wrote:
> To the charge of being an optimist, I plead enthusiastically in
> agreement.  Guiltlessly, enthusiastically, dynamically in agreement.
> And I invite one and all to join with me in optimarchy.
>
> Re the above link: I read the first couple of pages, thank you.  It
> seemed more puff piece -- As in "Well, duh!" -- than scientifically
> informative.   But I genuinely appreciate our "discussion", and am at
> pains to make sure you to feel treated with respect, despite the fact
> that I find the materials you provided not persuasive.
>
> Are we good, then?
>

Yes, the article was a 'pop' easy read version.
It is a real effect though.
<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Optimism_bias>
has more scholarly references for you if you want more detail.

Optimism seems to be a pretty universal human characteristic.
As the article says, it is good for you. Keeps you happier and healthier.
Gives you incentive to get out and do seemingly impossible things.
What's not to like?

Well, the problem is neglecting to plan for when your endeavors fail
to turn out as well as you hoped for.
Being slightly depressed (cautious?) means 'Hope for the best but plan
for the worst'.
Whereas a supreme optimist says 'Don't worry - it will never happen'.

Humanity needs optimists to be entrepreneurs, start new businesses, do
scientific breakthroughs, etc. But remember that most new businesses
fail.  It is very reasonable to include backup plans.
Just sayin'.  :)

BillK