Weaponising hope: The reconfiguration of unrealistic optimism into positive social change

Abstract

This paper explores the transformational power of hope in creating productive communities, drawing on the experiences and literature of Zimbabwe and South Africa. In Zimbabwe, conservation agricultural initiatives have faced setbacks due to systemic failures rooted in historical, socio-economic disturbances, which have led to the need for more help among farmers. Likewise, the current socio-economic challenges in South Africa, exacerbated by the COVID-19 epidemic, underscore the imminent threat of constant exposure to stressors and traumas. Through narrative reflection on past and current experiences in conjunction with current literature, we highlight that long-term exposure to stress causes damage to physical and mental well-being, requiring a paradigm shift in hope as the driving force behind change. Promoting a culture of hope and providing mental health support, partaking in dialogue, and integrating hope into various systems, organisations, and communities individuals can mitigate the impact of obstacles and pave the way for a brighter future. Ultimately, the opinion paper supports that the strategic weaponisation of hope is fundamental for social change and progress.