It's Not Just In Your Head #154: The value of Pessimism (ft. Rachid M'Rabty)
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Sep 18, 2023 Rachid M'Rabty, a writer and academic specializing in late medieval studies, joins the conversation to challenge the notions of optimism and pessimism. He argues that optimism often leads to complacency, hindering collective change. Rachid redefines utopia as a continual rejection of the current state rather than a reachable goal. The discussion also touches on the ethical implications of pessimism, suggesting it can inspire action and compassion, contrasting sharply with the 'cruel optimism' that often binds individuals to capitalist systems.
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Optimism Masks Complacency
- Optimism can breed complacency and reduce accountability for change.
- Rachid argues utopia shouldn't be an optimistic promise but a critical 'not this' impulse.
Pessimism Reveals The Terrain
- Pessimism maps obstacles and forces pragmatic planning toward goals.
- Harriet and Rachid present pessimism as a terrain view, not defeatism.
Start From Critical Clarity
- Pessimism is a critical starting position that enables clearer navigation.
- From that critical stance you can choose pragmatic collective or individual paths.
