People Are Optimistic by Nature
May 24, 2009 by Peggy Rowland
Filed under Women's Health
With worldwide economic turmoil and a new flu epidemic, you might think some people would have a bleak outlook. Not so, according to researchers at the University of Kansas and Gallup. They believe that optimism is a universal phenomenon.
The lighter shades on the map represent areas with more optimism. Dark green areas represent places with the least optimism.
The new study showed that 89% of individuals worldwide think the next five years will be as good or better than currently. That’s not all: 95% of people in the study expect their life in five years to be as good or better than five years ago.
The study used data from the Gallup World Poll from more than 140 countries — representing 95% of the world’s population (more than 150,000 adults).
Which countries were the most optimistic? Ireland, Brazil, Denmark and New Zealand
The US ranked number 10 of the optimistic countries.
Do you share in this feeling of optimism?
(Image credit: University of Kansas/Gallup)
Hi, I am from India.
I see that India is showing a slightly darker shade of green, though it is not The most pessimistic country! I guess, what with poverty, very hot weather and the economic slouch, Indians have seen better days!
Still, we try to hang in there.
Thanks for the really insightful post.
Hi Jane. Thanks for lending your input.