Hope is a Tool, Not Just a Wish: Israeli Psychologist's New Book
Dr. Oded Adomi Lishm, a political psychologist and researcher of hope, argues that hope is not merely a passive feeling of optimism but an active mechanism and a tool that can drive political action and social change. In his new book, "The Hope Revolution," Lishm challenges the common perception of hope as a gentle, comforting emotion, asserting that it is a powerful force that can be harnessed by any ideology, including destructive ones.
Lishm distinguishes between optimism, which is an assessment of favorable outcomes, and hope, which he describes as a more demanding state that can persist even when circumstances are dire. "Hope is related to commitment and always accompanied by action," he explains, contrasting it with optimism which "can sit on the couch; hope needs to get up from it."
He contends that the liberal camp in Israel has become overly specialized in identifying and documenting disaster, often at the expense of creating viable alternatives. Lishm criticizes the prevailing emotional repertoire in liberal politics, which he sees as dominated by anger, fear, and anxiety, arguing that while these negative emotions are necessary for social change, they are insufficient on their own and can lead to despair.
Through his research at the International Center for the Study of Hope at the Hebrew University, Lishm explores the dynamics of hope, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His work suggests that the focus on the "feasibility" of peace has overshadowed the "desire" for it, leading to a decline in the aspiration for peace among Israelis. He proposes that instead of solely focusing on the mechanics of an agreement, the emphasis should shift to vividly portraying the tangible benefits and lived realities that peace would enable, drawing a parallel to the LGBTQ+ community's successful shift from shame to pride and celebration.
Lishm advocates for a more proactive and celebratory approach to political engagement, suggesting that successful movements combine both disruptive action and community building. He criticizes the liberal tendency to shy away from celebrating successes, allowing the narrative to be dominated by opponents who are adept at framing their achievements. Ultimately, he calls for a renewed focus on making peace and coexistence desirable aspirations, emphasizing that the pursuit of a future where human life is paramount is the core of true hope.
