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Progressive Optimism, Sunrise and Yellow
Interesting: Yum Bun’s optimistic new look is progressive optimism.
Sounds like Lisa Meyer gets the public's yearning for stories of optimism and hope.
How&How says, "The brand strategy, visual identity, and tone of voice look to reflect that sense of "progressive optimism".
"The metaphor we used for this was a sunrise — an elevating and optimistic moment at the beginning of the day. We called it our 'bunrise'."
"The revamped colour palette was inspired by sunrises, using yellow as a primary colour to underscore the sense of optimism further."
What is Progressive Optimism?
“Progressive optimism” is a concept that describes a positive outlook on the future, despite facing complex societal and environmental challenges. This perspective acknowledges our problems and obstacles but emphasises the potential for progress and positive change.
The term "Progressive optimism" has been used in many different contexts, from politics to psychology. However, it is often associated with the American “progressive movement” and its social and environmental justice emphasis in American politics.
The term originated in the late 19th century among people and movements advocating for reforms addressing poverty, corruption, and inequality. They believed that society could progress towards a better future with hard work and dedication. This belief in progress and the power of positive change is at the core of progressive optimism.
The idea of progressive optimism continued to evolve throughout the 20th century as people faced new challenges, such as global war, economic downturns, and environmental challenges. Yet, despite these challenges, people continued to believe in the potential for progress and positive change. This optimism fuelled social and political movements, such as the civil rights and environmental movements.
Today, progressive optimism is more crucial than ever. We face significant challenges like climate change, political polarisation, and increasing social inequality. Progressive optimists believe that we can overcome these challenges with the right policies, actions, and attitudes and create a more just, equitable, and sustainable future.
However, progressive optimism may be on the decline. In an interesting essay, “When Did Optimism Become Uncool?” Gregg Easterbrook wrote, “A century ago Progressives were the optimists, believing society could be improved, while conservatism saw the end-times approaching. Today progressive thought embraces Judgment Day, too. Climate change, inequality and racial tension are viewed not as the next round of problems to be solved, but as proof that the United States is horrible. And yet developing the post-industrial economy — while addressing issues such as inequality, greenhouse emissions and the condition of public schools — will require optimism. Pessimists think in terms of rear-guard actions to turn back the clock. Optimists understand that where the nation has faults, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work. That’s why the lack of progressive optimism is so keenly felt.”
Pessimism opens the doors to the demagogues.
In psychology, progressive optimism is associated with positive psychology, which focuses on strengths and positive emotions rather than weaknesses and negative emotions. It is used to help people overcome challenges and develop resilience in the face of adversity.
Progressive optimism can be a powerful concept that inspires hope, motivates action and drives positive change. It emphasises the potential for progress and positive change, even facing complex societal and environmental challenges. With a progressive and optimistic mindset, we can overcome our obstacles and create a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
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