faqs.org » Abstracts Index » Abstracts »

Optimistic biases about personal risks

Article Abstract:

It has been shown that people have an optimistic bias concerning personal risk; when it comes to potential harm, such as disease or catastrophe, people think that others are more likely to be affected than themselves. However, people are also optimistic concerning positive events, such as long life and success. Optimistic biases may exist for several reasons: people compare themselves with a norm that is not realistic; they interpret risk factors in a biased manner; and they tend to downplay risks. Optimism is greatest when people have little personal experience with the hazard, the chances of the hazard occurring are low, and when hazards are thought to be controllable by oneself. Several theories as to why people are so optimistic have been proposed. One is that optimism is an attempt to shield oneself from harm; another is that people want to be better than other people; a third proposal suggests that people are optimistically biased because they make errors in calculating risks. It is important to be aware of one's optimistic biases, as they can hinder actions that would lower risks. For example, if people do not think they will contract AIDS, acquired immunodeficiency disease, they will not take precautions in their behavior to lower their chances of contracting the disease. Nevertheless, there are also advantages to an optimistic attitude. For example, optimism is associated with less depression, more success, and better health. Therefore, optimism can be beneficial or harmful, depending on the nature of the illusion and the nature of the hazard. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Psychological aspects, Research, Attitudes, Optimism, Health attitudes, Attitude (Psychology)

---

Just a soccer star, after all: the son of Algerian immigrants, Zinedine Zidane was expected to lead France to a multicultural future; that's a lot to ask, even of a World Cup hero

Article Abstract:

Zinedine Zidane was France's key to winning the 1998 World Cup soccer championship, but his prior suspension almost cost the team its chance to play in the finals. The French reacted with a combination of hero-worshipping fanaticism and reservation about his Algerian background. He now lives and plays in Italy, and may not return to play for France. The French still need to deal with their immigrant population who, like Zidane, occupies blue-collar communities and jobs and is considered ethnically inferior to those with French birthright.

France, Demographic aspects, Biography, Race relations, Soccer players, World Cup (Soccer), 1998 AD, Zidane, Zinedane

---

The axis of austerity

Article Abstract:

The Italian fashion label Prada is focusing on upscale growth. A history of the luxury designer's constant drive for the new is seen in its new, more feminine spring 2000 collection.

Planning, Women's clothing industry, Clothing industry, Prada Holding N.V.

Some parts © 2010 Advameg, Inc.