To be positive is to be mistaken at the top of one's voice

To be positive is to be mistaken at the top of one's voice

Ambrose Bierce, a renowned American writer and satirist, was known for his sharp wit and cynical view of the world. One of his most famous quotes, “To be positive is to be mistaken at the top of one's voice,” perfectly encapsulates his skepticism and distrust of blind optimism.

In Bierce’s view, being positive is often a sign of ignorance or naivety. He believed that blindly believing in something without questioning or critically analyzing it was a sure way to be proven wrong. Bierce was a master of irony and sarcasm, and this quote reflects his belief that certainty and confidence can often lead to mistakes and misjudgments.

Bierce’s writing often explored the darker side of human nature and the absurdity of life. He was a keen observer of society and human behavior, and his works often satirized the hypocrisy and folly of his contemporaries. Bierce’s cynicism and skepticism were evident in his writing, and he was not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom or popular beliefs.

“To be positive is to be mistaken at the top of one's voice” can be interpreted as a warning against blind faith and unwavering certainty. Bierce believed that true wisdom came from questioning and skepticism, rather than from blindly accepting what one is told. He encouraged his readers to think critically and to challenge their own beliefs and assumptions.