Smile or Die: Is Positive Thinking Killing The Green Revolution?

Is positive thinking stifling the green revolution? In the video below acclaimed journalist, author and political activist Barbara Ehrenreich explores the darker side of positive thinking. It might seem like I’m reaching pretty far on this one however, as you listen to Barabara’s speech open up your mind and listen what she has to say about mandatory optimism and cheerfulness. As Barbara says in the video “I’m not promoting pessimism” but she does bring to light how we’re constantly forced to think that everything will be OK. Moreover, with this kind of mentality (everything will be OK or things will just workout) Americans are becoming decreasingly motivated and are less likely to take action or push for change.

When it comes to the green revolution this is the biggest battle that is being faced; arm chair activist and people who think the environmental problems that we’re encountering will work out by themselves. Is the real problem for renewable energy, sustainable living, and reducing our dependency on oil from the lack of scientific evidence or the promoted outlook on life that is becoming standardized with American citizens?

Note: Barbara makes a really interesting note on individual power and collective power in the last minute of the video.