Positive Thinking Is Surprisingly Prevalent

Pessimism is not quite as pervasive as it can seem, according to surveys conducted over the past year by the Archbridge Institute, a think tank focused on human flourishing. Positive attitudes remain remarkably widespread across different aspects of American life.

Approximately 70% of Americans report they have achieved, or are making progress toward achieving, the American Dream. What do people value most about that Dream? Freedom of choice in how to live tops the list at 83%, followed closely by having a good family life at 80%. Only 15% say becoming wealthy is essential. For most, the American Dream is about freedom and family, not riches.

The data also challenges the idea of generational decline; only 23% of Americans believe they have fewer opportunities than their parents did. Finally, despite narratives of powerlessness, strong majorities believe they have both the power (74%) and the responsibility (79%) to make contributions that improve the world.

Source: Clay Routledge, Archbridge Institute