From a leading popular philosopher, an uplifting meditation on the nature and power of optimism.
 
In this book Lars Svendsen embarks on a profound exploration of the nature of hope, asking what exactly hope is and how it differs from related phenomena such as wishful thinking. He argues that hope is rooted in the ability to shape one’s future, crucial for a society built on freedom instead of fear. Svendsen highlights hope’s vital role in giving life meaning, and its intimate connection to identity. He shows that, while hope cannot magically transform the world, it can empower individuals to focus on achievable goals rather than pressing challenges.
 
Ultimately, A Philosophy of Hope demonstrates the capacity of hope to propel both individuals and the world in a positive direction.

Lars Svendsen is professor of philosophy at the University of Bergen, Norway. He has written fourteen books, including A Philosophy of Fear, A Philosophy of Loneliness, and A Philosophy of Lying, all also published by Reaktion Books. Matt Bagguley is a translator of Norwegian fiction and nonfiction. He lives in Oslo.

Introduction
1. What Is Hope?
2. Defining Hope
3. Is Hope Irrational?
4. Hope and Freedom
5. The Politics of Hope
6. To Hope Well and to Hope Badly
7. Eternal and Finite Hope
8. What Can I Hope For? Immanuel Kant and Maria von Herbert
9. Optimism, Pessimism and Hope
10. Losing Hope
11. Hope and Meaning in Life
Bibliography
References
Index