Quote by Ambrose Bierce

Optimism: The doctrine that everything is beautiful, including what is ugly, everything good, especially the bad, and everything right that is wrong. ... It is hereditary, but fortunately not contagious.

Optimism: The doctrine that everything is beautiful, includi

Summary

This quote humorously defines optimism as a perspective that sees beauty in ugliness, finds the good in bad situations, and perceives what is wrong as right. It suggests that optimism is an inherent trait, passed down through generations, but reassures that it is not infectious, implying that it is a personal choice rather than something that can be spread to others. This explanation emphasizes the paradoxical and somewhat sarcastic nature of optimism, highlighting its ability to find light even in the darkest circumstances.

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By Ambrose Bierce

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