I don't think it's primarily about optimism vs realism. Those are attitudes, and I think the matter is more epistemological - about what valid conclusions we c

I don't think it's primarily about optimism vs realism. Those are attitudes, and I think the matter is more epistemological - about what valid conclusions we can draw based on the known details. For example, if we have incomplete information and we can't draw clear conclusions from it, rather than thinking of what sort of attitude we should take towards it (or optimistic vs cynical) -- what we think is likely the case -- our first step should be to admit the incomplete information and be agnostic about what's actually the truth of the matter. If there are particular reasons for thinking one option (eg fraud) is likely then you can list first reasons and the facts that support them. Doing so doesn't and shouldn't have to involve an attitude like realism or cynicism.