Sumit Paul-Choudhury The Bright Side: How Optimists Change the World, and How You Can Be One

About

In the thought-provoking tradition of Steven Pinkers Enlightenment Now and Yuval Noah Hararis Homo Deus, this fascinating and reassuring talk explores the philosophy, psychology and practical power of optimismand why being optimistic is, in Paul-Choudhurys view, a moral obligation even in the face of todays seemingly insurmountable challenges. Scrolling through daily newsfeeds filled with violence, turmoil, injustice, fake news, clickbait and worsening environmental crises, it can feel impossible to stay hopeful. The Bright Side shows why we mustand how we can.Drawing on biology, history, economics, meteorology and cutting-edge behavioural science, Paul-Choudhury reveals the underappreciated evolutionary and cultural roots of optimism, its profound impacts on mental health and professional success, and the surprising ways it differs from nave wishful thinking. He demonstrates how the principles of optimism help us cope with environmental change, artificial intelligence and rapid social transformation, illustrated through inspirational stories of explorers, scientists and activists who have used optimism as a tool for progress. A beacon amid dark times, his work provides a lens through which we can see our challenges more clearlyand practical tools for overcoming them to create a better future.Sumit Paul-Choudhury is a writer, physicist and former editor-in-chief of New Scientist, widely admired for making complex ideas accessible and engaging. His journalism and analysis blend intellectual range with scientific clarity. A seasoned commentator on technology, systems thinking and human behaviour, he brings an unusually rich, interdisciplinary perspective to the subjectmaking this session both inspiring and deeply relevant for anyone seeking hope without delusion.A Q&A Session will follow.