Chapter 1: The Foundations of Positive Thinking

The concept of positive thinking has long been a subject of debate, often viewed through the lens of skepticism or optimism. Arthur Schopenhauer once posed a profound question: "Is that true?" It's a question that challenges us to examine our beliefs critically.

As someone who didn't naturally lean towards positivity, I vividly recall my childhood anxieties. Growing up in the 1970s, I often felt a wave of dread wash over me every Sunday evening, anticipating the challenges of the school week. The pressures of daunting teachers, intimidating peers, and the fear of failure loomed large in my mind.

To seek solace, I would occasionally find myself staring at an inspirational poem on a blacklight poster in my sister's room. The lines glowed vividly under the light, especially when enhanced by the haze of smoke that sometimes filled the air. I absorbed its message:

Forget the past.

I exist in the present.

I understand where I could have been,

had I chosen differently.

Tell me, friend, what actions can I take today,

to achieve my dreams

tomorrow?

Despite my efforts, I could never locate the author, only known by the name "Sigrad," which I later learned ironically means "defeated" in Icelandic. The poem, while meaningful, couldn't prepare me for the turbulent times that lay ahead.

In the late 1970s, my family made an ill-advised transition from our cozy home in Queens to a larger, less affordable house in Long Island. This move coincided with my father's job loss, forcing us to rely on kerosene heaters for warmth and secondhand clothes for survival. I even overheard my mother discussing the possibility of us needing food stamps.

As financial pressures mounted, my parents' marriage began to unravel, and we faced the risk of losing our home. In moments of solitude, I would wish on stars, holding onto the belief that any disaster could be met with a solution.

In search of deeper wisdom, I expanded my reading from posters to works by Ralph Waldo Emerson and the Talmud. These texts echoed the sentiment that our mindset plays a significant role in shaping our experiences. Emerson's exhortation to "Nerve us with incessant affirmatives" and the Talmudic wisdom of "Be of good countenance" resonated deeply with me, instilling hope that a positive internal outlook could influence reality.

I committed myself to self-improvement, focusing on practical steps like delivering newspapers and recycling junk. I balanced high school with drama classes, meticulously crafted college applications, and reached out to financial aid departments. Gradually, we managed to stabilize our finances and maintain our home.

While positive thinking didn't erase our challenges, it provided a framework for navigating them. The unwavering support from my mother's labor union was pivotal in our survival, yet I emerged from this period convinced that cultivating a positive mindset played a crucial role in overcoming adversity.

Later, I was inspired by my mother-in-law, Theresa Orr, who embodied the transformative power of positive thinking. As the daughter of an Italian immigrant, she became the first in her family to graduate from college, eventually ascending to an associate dean position at Harvard Medical School. Despite the demands of her career, she raised two daughters as a single parent while supporting her elderly mother and aiding others in recovery.

Terri immersed herself in positive thinking literature, plastering her home with affirmations that encouraged positivity and action. Her enthusiasm for these ideas made a significant impact on her life, showcasing how a strong mindset can foster resilience.

From my late twenties to mid-forties, I explored various spiritual paths, yet I was consistently drawn back to the principles of positive thinking. This philosophy emphasizes visualizing desired outcomes and believing that one's mindset can influence reality.

While some may dismiss positive thinking as overly simplistic or naive, I find value in its foundational ideas. Historically, many influential thinkers who embraced positive thinking sought truth in its straightforwardness, often overlooking its potential shortcomings.

Though I don't subscribe to the notion that one principle holds ultimate power, I acknowledge that the effectiveness of positive thinking often correlates with an individual's desire for self-improvement. Known as New Thought, this movement has become a prominent force in contemporary culture, providing millions with practical tools for navigating life's challenges.

However, the philosophy is not without its flaws. Critics point out its ethical dilemmas and contradictions, emphasizing the need for a more nuanced understanding of its implications. To mature as a movement, adherents must confront its shortcomings while acknowledging its potential for growth.

Many people, like my younger self, hope that our thoughts can wield influence over our lives and circumstances. The belief that a positive attitude can lead to better outcomes persists, despite skepticism about its validity.

Chapter 2: The Historical Context of Positive Thinking

As early as the mid-nineteenth century, a diverse group of American thinkers began to explore the capabilities of the human mind. This eclectic mix of psychical researchers, religious philosophers, and various social reformers sought to understand whether mental forces could affect daily life.

This era, marked by rapid advancements in science and spirituality, fostered a belief in unseen forces. Philosophers like William James recognized the burgeoning movement around positive thinking, dubbing it "the religion of healthy-mindedness." He believed it held the potential to unify spirituality and pragmatism, much like the Reformation reshaped religious thought.

James observed a wave of religious enthusiasm similar to early movements in Christianity and Buddhism, indicating that positive thinking was becoming a significant part of American spiritual life. While the movement's influence is undeniable, its institutional presence has waned over time.

In "Occult America," I explored the historical significance of positive thinking, revealing its deep roots in American culture. This philosophy has permeated various aspects of life, shaping our perceptions of self, spirituality, commerce, and politics.

Today, the ethos of positive thinking is evident in various facets of American life, from motivational speakers to self-help literature and corporate environments. This pervasive ideology has transformed religion from a purely salvational force to one focused on healing and personal growth.

The political landscape, too, has been influenced by positive thinking. Ronald Reagan's optimistic rhetoric, which emphasized the belief that "nothing is impossible," resonated with the public due to the cultural backdrop of motivational psychology. Such ideas have shaped the national narrative, presenting a vision of limitless potential.

Nevertheless, positive thinking has faced criticism, particularly from those who argue it oversimplifies complex issues. Observers like Barbara Ehrenreich and Richard Hofstadter have highlighted the dangers of dismissing the realities of social and economic challenges in favor of a sunny disposition.

Despite criticisms, I believe that an evolved understanding of positive thinking can coexist with its original intent. It is essential to recognize the movement's potential while addressing its inherent contradictions.

In conclusion, as someone who has engaged with positive thinking both personally and professionally, I appreciate its promise and recognize its flaws. The movement's influence is woven into the fabric of American culture, and understanding its historical context can illuminate its ongoing relevance.

The journey of positive thinking—from its inception to its current manifestations—invites us to reflect on its power and limitations. As we navigate the complexities of life, we must grapple with the fundamental question: Does it truly work?

In exploring this rich landscape, we can strive for a balanced perspective that appreciates the transformative potential of positive thinking while acknowledging the need for depth and ethical accountability.