Course Description

Instructor: Robert Pawlicki

In an age overflowing with conflict and uncertainty, optimism can seem naïve—or even reckless. Yet history shows it is precisely this daring hope that lights the path out of darkness. From a mental health perspective, optimism isn’t wishful thinking—it’s wise thinking. It widens our vision, revealing opportunities that pessimism keeps hidden. In this two-session class, retired psychologist Robert Pawlicki will explore how unchecked pessimism can quietly erode well-being, and how realistic optimism has fueled progress in the past—and can do so again today.

Bio: Robert Pawlicki, Ph.D., was a full professor at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and the West Virginia University Medical Center.  Previously he was a tenured associate professor at SUNY Oswego (State University of New York). He has published three books related to happiness and well-being.  In retirement he became a newspaper columnist and has had over 150 opinion page columns published throughout the United States.