A strand through American history is "positive thinking." From Ben Franklin's advice to the "health and wealth gospel" of the 19th century to bestselling books by Anthony Robbins, Americans of all ages have heard, practiced and used "positive thinking." For a history of positive thinking, see: One of the more influential purveyors of positive thinking was Norman Vincent Peale. The Washington Post says: "At his peak, Peale reached millions through radio and television shows an