Hope: A Reflective and Connective Phenomenon

Hope has been described as an inherent, non-negotiable aspect of human existence. Hope, however, remains understudied. This paper argues that to study hope is also to study the ways human beings relate to the Earth and to each other. The author’s purpose is to show how hope creates reflection and connection, revealing truths about the world and untapped potential for hope to be part of collective healing in response to existential threats and trauma. Hope is considered alongside the phenomena of fear, grief, compassion, and care.