Does hope matter for social and political transformation? Accumulating evidence suggests a provocative answer: It depends! In this new paper, we examine the conditions under which hope can catalyze societal change, and when it may fail to do so, across domains such as climate sustainability & peace

Three months before the war, I submitted Hope Amidst Conflict, with a dedication to the children of Israel and Palestine... War is humanity failing itself. Peace will be our biggest triumph. Grateful to ISPP for the Best Book Award. May this renew our resolve for peace.

Check out my talk with Rabbi Ingber from the 92Y. “Leshem shares insights from his research on what hope is, how it shapes political behavior, and how to cultivate it in our societies. From the philosophical to the practical, Oded invites us to consider why hope may be our most vital resource.”

Two years ago, I was fortunate to befriend the German Ambassador to Israel, Steffen Seibert. I was so happy to join Steffen for a 15-kilometer walk, where we spent the day talking about —HOPE. Steffen is a committed advocate of peace and democracy and one of the bravest diplomats I know.

I've long wanted to teach a class on hope as a social & political phenomenon—but wasn’t sure how. Now I know: bring brilliant grad students together & examine hope from every angle. After a semester, we’ve only scratched the surface. Excited to see their work grow at the Int'l Hub for Hope Research!

It was an honor to discuss HOPE with an exceptional group of people, including the Ambassadors of Ireland, Finland, Norway, Estonia, The Netherlands, Sweden, Belgium, and Moldova. One of the most inspiring people I know, German Ambassador Steffen Seibert, initiated this event. Thanks, Steffen!