IMO, this idea that “everything will work out OK in the end” is caused by the unique situation that materially, for white Americans, everything sorta has worked out in their favor for the last 400 years.
There are deep roots to this in American protestantism. I can not tell you how many times I have had constructive conversations shut down because "Well if I'm dying and going to heaven does that really matter?" It's a similar sentiment. It's not just a saccharin optimism, it's an optimism that comes from perceiving yourself as/being part of The Elect (see: Prosperity Gospel here as well.)
There are deep roots to this in American protestantism. I can not tell you how many times I have had constructive conversations shut down because "Well if I'm dying and going to heaven does that really matter?" It's a similar sentiment. It's not just a saccharin optimism, it's an optimism that comes from perceiving yourself as/being part of The Elect (see: Prosperity Gospel here as well.)
Great point.