If you can't make it in America with hard work and optimism, then I can see why one would be pessimistic. Academia is full of such folks. Hence the "suprise" at these results.
I think the "surprise" also reflects elitism ... how could people who work blue-collar jobs, live in the suburbs and shop at Wal-mart be optimistic? Don't they realize how pitiful their lives are?
quote "Only 15 percent to 22 percent of the respondents say they have grown more pessimistic over the past five years. "
That 15 to 22% is the base of the Democratic party. LOL!