For a Sociology of Hope: Future Horizon and Possible Worlds

Various sociologists have developed concepts that have a close connection with hope (action, social change, utopia, etc.). However, a coherent and systematic analysis of this theme has not been developed yet. Taking up the threads of this rich, but fragmented, reflection, I will try to clarify some aspects and dynamics that appear particularly significant to what could be defined as the “sociology of hope”. This path will be outlined starting from the development of the concept of hope in the social sciences as a lever for overcoming the interregnum (“old dies” but the “new” fails to be born). It will continue with a systematized synthesis of humanities and sociological studies that have opened a “dialogue” with the concept of hope and which have considered hope as a force that mobilizes individuals and social groups to action (praxis) toward new “possible worlds.”