If pessimism is despair, optimism is cowardice and stupidity. Is there any need to choose between them?

Pessimism only describes an attitude, and not facts, and hence is entirely subjective.

Pessimism is as American as apple pie - frozen apple pie with a slice of processed cheese.

Pessimism is only the name that men of weak nerves give to wisdom.

I found, when I left, that there were others who felt the same way. We'd meet, they'd come and seek me out, we'd talk about the future. And I found that their depression and pessimism was every bit as acute as mine.

My pessimism extends to the point of even suspecting the sincerity of other pessimists.

My pessimism goes to the point of suspecting the sincerity of the pessimists.

You know, the pessimism which exists now in the Middle East existed in Northern Ireland, but we stayed at it.

Pessimism is a luxury that a Jew can never allow himself.

One has to have the courage of one's pessimism.

There's probably a little greater case for pessimism than optimism. But I do not rule out optimism.

Pessimism leads to weakness, optimism to power.

I don't think you lead by pessimism and cynicism. I think you lead by optimism and enthusiasm and energy.

Criticism and pessimism destroy families, undermine institutions of all kinds, defeat nearly everyone, and spread a shroud of gloom over entire nations.

Pessimism of the spirit; optimism of the will.