Magnetic North: One Journalist's Quest to Make Sense of the Universe

Magnetic North: One Journalist's Quest to Make Sense of the Universe

Share this post

Magnetic North: One Journalist's Quest to Make Sense of the Universe
Magnetic North: One Journalist's Quest to Make Sense of the Universe
The Case Against Delusion

The Case Against Delusion

Why Relentless Positivity Doesn't Always Pan Out

Scott Carney's avatar
Scott Carney
Jun 03, 2025
∙ Paid
20

Share this post

Magnetic North: One Journalist's Quest to Make Sense of the Universe
Magnetic North: One Journalist's Quest to Make Sense of the Universe
The Case Against Delusion
4
3
Share

American delusion is an interesting racket. Here is how it works: If you believe in something strong enough the sheer force of your positive outlook will bend reality to your will and deliver success. This idea, I often call it The Cult of Relentless Positivity, lies at the heart of every contemporary sales pitch, motivational course and alternative med…

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to Magnetic North: One Journalist's Quest to Make Sense of the Universe to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
© 2025 Scott Carney
Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start writingGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture

Share