Exploring the Benefits of Pessimism and Optimism

3min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

Pessimism offers the benefit of being well-prepared and not constantly expecting bad news, leading to pleasant surprises. In contrast, adamant optimism can lead to torment when faced with recurring negative events. Viewing life through a pessimistic lens allows for the appreciation of unexpected positive moments. Resilient optimism, tempered with caution and drawing positive energy from taking action, is advocated as a better approach than pessimism. The speaker emphasizes that they are not trying to persuade or convert anyone, but offering a particular way of thinking that may interest individuals who have experienced instability and the absence of a stable background necessary for pragmatic optimism.

John Gray is a philosopher and writer renowned for his critical examination of liberalism, atheism, and the human condition. His unique perspective is shaped over a decades-long career, during which he has authored influential books on topics ranging from political theory to what we can learn from cats about on how to live a good life. His latest book, The New Leviathans: Thoughts After Liberalism, delivers a provocative examination of the 2020s' political landscape, challenges liberal triumphalism with a realistic critique of ongoing global crises and the persistent allure of human delusions.

Tyler and John sat down to discuss his latest book, including who he thinks will carry on his work, what young people should learn if liberalism is dead, whether modern physics allows for true atheism, what in Eastern Orthodoxy attracts him, the benefits of pessimism, what philanthropic cause he’d invest a billion dollars in, under what circumstances he’d sacrifice his life, what he makes of UFOs, the current renaissance in film and books, whether Monty Python is still funny, how Herman Melville influenced him, who first spotted his talent, his most unusual work habit, what he’ll do next, and more.

Donate to Conversations with Tyler and help us keep the conversations going.

Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links, or watch the full video.

Recorded October 24th, 2023.

Other ways to connect

Follow us on X and Instagram
Follow Tyler on X
Join our Discord
Email us: cowenconvos@mercatus.gmu.edu
Learn more about Conversations with Tyler and other Mercatus Center podcasts here.