What Can We Hope For?

This collection features Richard Rorty's insightful essays on contemporary political issues, addressing challenges like populism and inequality, while offering hopeful strategies for fostering trust and community in democracies.

What Can We Hope For? is a collection of insightful essays by Richard Rorty, a prominent philosopher known for his foresight regarding the rise of populism in American politics. Nearly two decades before the election of Donald Trump, Rorty warned about the potential for a strongman to emerge in the political landscape. This book compiles nineteen of his essays on both American and global political issues, including four that have not been published before, along with several lesser-known works.

In these essays, Rorty addresses pressing challenges that democracies encounter, such as the rise of populism, increasing economic inequality, and the threats posed by overpopulation and environmental degradation. His writing is both provocative and compelling, encouraging readers to reflect on the state of democracy today. Rorty does not shy away from the urgency of these issues; instead, he offers a blend of optimism and realism, proposing actionable ideas to tackle these crises.

Rorty emphasizes the importance of fostering social hope and building a global community based on trust. He advocates for the support of trade unions, universities, grassroots social movements, and bold political initiatives that challenge conventional ideologies. Through his thoughtful analysis and creative solutions, What Can We Hope For? serves as a crucial examination of contemporary political dilemmas, urging readers to consider how they can contribute to a more hopeful and inclusive future.