Hope: A Philosophical Perspective

Hope is a reassuring state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive results in relation to personal or worldly events and circumstances. Discourses of hope can be found in the history of philosophy and all key philosophical traditions. All major philosophers acknowledge that hope plays an important role with respect to human motivation, and religious and political beliefs. Discussions of the importance of hope were often ingrained in certain philosophical works. Recent discussions of hope provide independent accounts regarding its nature and relation to other mental phenomena, such as desire, intention and optimism. Hope differs from mere expectations to an extent that it mirrors the human desires and brings them into play. Some of the diverse topics covered in this book address the varied philosophies that fall under this category. Such selected concepts that redefine the philosophy of hope have been presented herein. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about this topic.