Feeling good about government is like looking on the bright side of any catastrophe. When you quit looking on the bright side, the catastrophe is still there.

The quote by P. J. O'Rourke, an American political satirist, humorously critiques the way people often view government. By saying, "Feeling good about government is like looking on the bright side of any catastrophe," O'Rourke compares an overly optimistic view of government to the act of finding the positives in a disastrous situation. He suggests that while it may be tempting to focus on the benefits or hopeful aspects of government, this does not change the underlying problems or inefficiencies that persist.

O'Rourke’s statement reflects his skepticism toward the idea that government can effectively solve societal problems. The comparison to a catastrophe implies that, despite the government’s positive spin or well-intentioned policies, the fundamental issues it creates or exacerbates remain. In other words, no matter how optimistic one feels about government intervention, the failures or inefficiencies inherent in large bureaucratic systems still persist beneath the surface.

The second part of the quote, "When you quit looking on the bright side, the catastrophe is still there," reinforces the idea that avoiding or glossing over the negative aspects of government does not make those issues disappear. O'Rourke suggests that it's crucial to face the reality of government and its shortcomings, rather than relying on a false sense of optimism that ignores the deeper problems that affect individuals and society.

Ultimately, O'Rourke’s quote serves as a reminder to critically evaluate government and its role in society, rather than being swayed by its public relations or overly optimistic portrayals. It encourages a more realistic approach, acknowledging that despite any positive outlook, catastrophic issues remain unless they are actively addressed.