what outlook is not?

Statistical rationalism based on relevant history.

If you are looking for a rational basis for any perspective, you won't find a single one that survives a deconstructive analysis.

Well that's terrifying. To be human is to be utterly incapable of rationality.

However, catastrophe is uncommon and unreliable. How about the majority of time which is non-catastrophic? Does the pessimist have the advantage there?

I would argue yes. Non catastrophic failure, or even success with problems are benefited materially from pessimistic preparation. I look at it like this, I can anticipate a certain percentage of all of the bad things that will happen. I can affect positive change or prepare for a percentage of that percentage. That means that, while it is not 100% effective, there is a set of problems that can be anticipated/prevented mitigated if they are only considered/prepared for. If I know, I am responsible. I could just stop thinking about these things altogether and throw my hands up in the air with everybody else going 'WE DIDN'T KNOW!!! WE DIDN'T KNOW!!! WE SHOULD HAVE LISTENED!' But I would rather do something about it.

Can your behavior and you nature adapt to circumstance?

Yes, but adaptation is easier/more effective if the circumstance can be predicted.

However, through trial and error, I have discovered that action is also a tool.

Again, do things that take your eye off the firing squad. Fill the time until you die of a cause that's socially acceptable, after having paid all your bills of course.