Is there something in the American psyche that makes the United States a nation of Pollyannas?
Cerulo: I think it’s true that Americans probably have an exaggerated case of positive asymmetry. It has to do with the roots of the American nation – the frontier mentality and the immigrant mentality that have always been part of the American story. You’re leaving behind something and looking for a better life – that’s optimism in its purest form. It’s great that we’re thinking optimistically, but again, I think if we were more balanced, we would be better prepared for a Katrina or a September 11, or an economic catastrophe. I believe we can learn to do this. There are case studies in my book, examples that teach us ways to recognize positive asymmetry and free us from its negative effects. FOCUS: What is the impact of positive asymmetry on the American electoral process? Cerulo: I think we’ve seen a number of candidates bite the dust because of Americans’ preference for optimistic news. For example, some candidates never made it to the general election (Bruce Babbit comes to mind) o
