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Optimism, irrational though it might be, is central to the human psyche: it seems to give us an advantage both in everyday life and in the evolutionary race. What does Ernest Shackleton''s Antarctic expedition have in common with the chicken that crossed the road? Or James Baldwin''s campaign for civil rights with the development of AI? Or even Crossrail and George Bush''s ''mission accomplished''? The Bright Side makes a vital and transformative new argument: that optimism is not only the natural state of humanity, but an essential one. Without optimism we would never have survived the unpredictable - and often hostile - world we evolved into. Yet optimism is not reserved for times of extremity. Its benefits manifest throughout our everyday lives: our relationships, careers, bodies and minds. And it will play a critical role in overcoming the challenges of the 21st century. In this book, astrophysicist-turned-journalist Sumit-Paul Choudhury offers practical suggestions on what it really takes to be an optimist today and, in doing so, provides a powerful manifesto for hope and a much-needed new perspective on our prospects. He shows how, by embracing action, imagination and possibility, we can find a path to the bright side, even - perhaps especially - when the future seems dark. Both realistic and revolutionary, The Bright Side is a guidebook for troubled times that will make you re-evaluate your habits and outlook.
About the author
Sumit Paul-Choudhury trained as an astrophysicist before becoming a journalist specialising in finance, risk, strategy and technology. A former editor-in-chief of New Scientist magazine, he has served as a judge for the Samuel Johnson Prize, the Wellcome Prize and the Costa Book Awards. His creative studio, Alternity, works with a wide variety of organisations to explore the endless possibilities of the past, present and future.
The Bright Side is his debut book.
@sumit | paulchoudhury.com
