"My optimism is not based primarily on the successful march of democracy in recent times but rather is based on the experience of having lived in a fear society and studied the mechanics of tyranny that sustain such a society"

In this quote, Natan Sharansky reveals his belief in the power of optimism. He describes that his optimism is not entirely based upon the recent success of democracy, however rather on his personal experience of living in a society ruled by worry. Sharansky has studied the inner operations of a high-handed society and comprehends the systems that enable it to grow. Through his own experience and knowledge, he has pertained to believe that optimism is a vital consider overcoming worry and oppression. Sharansky's words function as a pointer that even in the darkest of times, hope and optimism can be effective tools in the fight for flexibility and democracy.