The optimist proclaims that we live in the best of all possible worlds; and the pessimist fears this is true.
Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Optimists believe the world is as good as it can be, while pessimists worry this means no improvement is possible.
- In plain terms
- Being too happy about the world might mean you stop trying to make it better.
- What can you take from it?
- Complacency about current conditions can hinder progress.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does satisfaction prevent change?
- How do you balance hope and critique?
Another view
The quote oversimplifies the nuanced relationship between hope and critical assessment.
More from Irving Caesar
I see the Flowers free, And a little bird singing on a tree. It sings to me the whole day long, And I love to hear it's pretty song.
Permalink to quote #3 Sometimes I'm happy sometimes I'm blue my disposition depends on you.
Permalink to quote #2 Picture you upon my knee, Just tea for two and two for tea
Permalink to quote #1
Related quotes
To the question whether I am a pessimist or an optimist, I answer that my knowledge is pessimistic, but my willing and hoping are optimistic.
Albert SchweitzerAlbert Schweitzer quote #3 The Optimist thinks this is the best of all possible worlds, the Pessimist fears it is true.
J. Robert OppenheimerJ. Robert Oppenheimer quote #15 I have always been - I think any student of history almost inevitably is - a cheerful pessimist.
Jacques BarzunJacques Barzun quote #19