Philosophical pessimism is a worldview that emphasizes the negative aspects of existence, suggesting that life is filled with suffering and disappointment. It argues that human desires often lead to unhappiness, and that fulfillment is rarely achieved. This perspective can be traced back to thinkers like Arthur Schopenhauer, who believed that life is fundamentally driven by insatiable desires. Pessimists often critique the idea of progress, asserting that improvements in society do not necessarily lead to greater happiness. They contend that while people may strive for meaning and joy, the inherent struggles of life can overshadow these pursuits, leading to a more somber understanding of human experience.