Pessimism

Pessimism is a mental attitude or worldview where an individual anticipates undesirable outcomes or believes that the evil or hardships in life outweigh the good or luxuries. This perspective is generally contrasted with optimism.

Etymology

The term "pessimism" derives from the Latin word pessimus meaning "worst". It was first used by Jesuit critics of Voltaire's 1759 novel Candide, ou l'Optimisme. Voltaire was satirizing the philosophy of Leibniz who maintained that this was the "best (optimum) of all possible worlds". In their attacks on Voltaire, the Jesuits of the Revue de Trévoux accused him of pessimisme.

Philosophical Pessimism

Philosophical pessimism is not a state of mind or a psychological disposition, but rather it is a worldview or ethic that seeks to face up to the distasteful realities of the world and eliminate irrational hopes and expectations (such as the Idea of Progress and religious faith) which may lead to undesirable outcomes.

Psychological Pessimism

In psychology, pessimism is defined as a state of mind in which one perceives life negatively. Research has connected this mindset with higher levels of stress and depression.

Pessimism in Literature

Pessimism is often found in literature, particularly in works of naturalism, which tend to focus on the harsh realities of life and the ways in which individuals must struggle to survive.

See Also

• Optimism
• Realism (philosophy)
• Nihilism
• Existentialism
• Stoicism

External Links

• Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy Entry on Pessimism

Pessimism Resources
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