"Scratch a pessimist and you find often a defender of privilege"

This quote by William Beveridge suggests that pessimism is frequently a mask for those who are protecting their own opportunity. It suggests that pessimism is used as a tool to protect the status quo and to prevent modification. It recommends that pessimism is utilized to preserve the power of those in positions of advantage, and to prevent those without benefit from accessing to resources and opportunities. It suggests that pessimism is a type of self-protection, and that those who are cynical are often safeguarding their own interests rather than the interests of others. It likewise recommends that pessimism is a type of resistance to change, which those who are cynical are typically reluctant to accept originalities or to embrace development. Eventually, this quote recommends that pessimism is often a tool used to safeguard the interests of those in positions of power and opportunity.