The Bright Side
February 28 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Discover why optimism, irrational though it might seem, is not only a natural human trait but a vital one for our survival. Join Sumit Paul-Choudhury, astrophysicist-turned-journalist and former editor-in-chief of New Scientist, as he presents his groundbreaking debut book, The Bright Side. In this thought-provoking talk, Sumit weaves together stories from Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition to James Baldwin’s civil rights campaign, and even explores the unexpected connections between Crossrail, Artificial Intelligence, and George Bush’s ‘mission accomplished.’
Sumit argues that optimism is central to our ability to navigate the unpredictable and often hostile world we live in. More than just a mindset for extreme situations, optimism impacts our daily lives, from relationships and careers to our mental and physical health. The Bright Side offers practical insights on how to cultivate optimism and provides a transformative manifesto for hope in a world facing immense challenges.
Join us at Alnwick Story Fest 2025 for an inspiring and revolutionary perspective on how embracing action, imagination, and possibility can help us find the path to a brighter future.