Why Do Optimists Live Longer?

More than two decades ago, psychologist Christopher Peterson discovered that optimists live longer than pessimists. On Bloggingheads, Peterson recently discussed his research.

More than two decades ago, psychologist Christopher Peterson discovered that optimists live longer than pessimists. His subsequent research linked optimism to improved cardiovascular health, fewer accidental injuries, and -- as he documented in a paper published this summer -- reduced likelihood of stroke. But why would optimism lead to better health outcomes? In a recent Bloggingheads.tv diavlog, Peterson offered his paradoxical answer.

How did Peterson first make the connection between optimism and health? It goes back to WWII-era Harvard students and the mysterious "death by other."