In a world where injustice, poverty, war and natural disasters are a daily cause of human pain and suffering, how do people find the ability to go on?  The Hope Phenomenon explores the fundamental elements of the human spirit that generate the will and way power to survive and thrive in times of crisis and beyond.  The research introduces conflict as the constant driver of change and the catalyst for human progress within which lies the spark of hope – a form of future thinking that is different from wishing or dreaming. The resulting hope theory identifies seven pillars of hope based on a life coaching model – vision, beliefs, values, motivators, strengths, resources and action – which have the ability to transform conflict and contribute to building lasting peace in the world.

 

This research was originally published as part of a thesis paper entitled The Role of Hope in Transforming Conflict for the MA in Sustainable Peace in the Contemporary World at the UN-Mandated University for Peace in Costa Rica. It has since been presented at conferences across Canada related to community leadership and student mental health.