[Pops]

$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('Ibon', 'I') am accused of being an optimist ...

[Timo]

$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('Pops', '')$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('Ibon', 'I') am accused of being an optimist ...

[ralfy]

$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('Pops', '
')Why doesn't that simply make you a pessimist? I mean after all, most folks believe they are right about most things and especially about their beliefs — that's why they are called beliefs. LOL

In other words, most everyone thinks they are a realist, that they have a grasp of reality. Probably more likely, most never even considers otherwise. Which is maybe why optical illusions like MC Esche's drawings are so fascinating, we are surprised because our preconceptions of reality are challenged.

I'm not turning into some transcendental swami seeking enlightenment on the astral plane, merely acknowledging the fact that sometimes my closely held beliefs, knee-jerks, gut reactions and off the cuff opinions —that I am completely positive about initially, turn out to be mistaken on closer inspection.

Perhaps I'm simply a poor specimen and you all have perfect insight. Or maybe you all [realists] just never consider the possibility you don't.


“Positive, adj.: Mistaken at the top of one's voice.”
― Ambrose Bierce, The Unabridged Devil's Dictionary

[Timo]

Is it possible to be a realist and a pessimist at the same time? IOW, if i accept, or at least believe in a present reality that doesn't bode well for the future of the planet, am i a realist, or a pessimist?

I suppose acceptance of our present reality makes me a realist, whereas my pessimism is based on intangible expectations. The future hasn't happened yet. All i can do is prepare, and place my bets based on my expectations.

The optimist feels lucky, and therefore is free to gamble his prospects on the future. The pessimist figures the odds are stacked against him, and doesn't even bother to play the game.

The realist, other the other hand, understand the odds are not in his favor, but does play the game, just to enjoy the ride.

I think i just answered my own question.

[Ibon]

$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('Timo', '
')
The realist, other the other hand, understand the odds are not in his favor, but does play the game, just to enjoy the ride.

[onlooker]

I think maybe we should try a different term for realist. What about a neutral observer. I think what a person can do to confront a problem or dilemma is to dispassionately analyze it and try and come to a conclusion or solution. Think Spock in Startrek. By doing so a person can try and eliminate emotions and biases which can cloud the objective analysis and perspective needed to solve or confront a particular problem. So that is my take on a realist. As for Ralphy's point that in regards to this world-wide situation more and more pessimists will resemble realists well yes again what was referred to here is the reaction to a problems or set of problems. That is tangential to a clear understanding of the situation. The clear understanding is reached with dispassionate analysis. That has nothing to do with a subjective interpretation siding towards pessimism or optimism.

[Keith_McClary]

$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('onlooker', 'T')he optimist sees the glass half full , the pessimist sees the glass half empty, the realist is looking to find more water.

[onlooker]

yeah we need with all the stuff happening in the world lol