Smile or Die

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Barbara Ehrenreich is the author of the New York Times best-selling Nickel and Dimed, which is an exposé of low-paying jobs in America. She also holds a PhD in cellular immunology.

Optimistic thinking has deeply influenced American society, extending from personal and professional spheres to religious institutions, where many churches now emphasize positivity and prosperity over traditional themes of sin and suffering. This shift has popularized the "prosperity gospel," drawing large congregations and fostering heightened expectations that personal beliefs alone can shape one’s destiny, often leading to unrealistic aspirations. While some argue that optimism benefits health by reducing stress and strengthening the immune system, studies have cast doubt on these claims, revealing no significant survival advantages for patients with positive attitudes. In the corporate world, motivational coaching rooted in positive thinking encourages employees to take responsibility for their satisfaction and performance, benefiting companies but sometimes distorting perceptions of workplace realities. This positivity-driven industry has grown into a lucrative market, yet its tendency to discourage critical thinking can lead to denial of risks, as seen in historical examples like the Bush administration’s failure to act on 9/11 warnings. Rooted in early American Calvinist beliefs, which emphasized predestination and hard work, the evolution of positive thinking into a philosophy of self-determination has fostered a culture of accountability, placing the burden of success or failure squarely on individuals.

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