Wired for Hope

Science tells us there exists this phenomenon called the optimism bias that hardwires humans for hope despite a bleak reality. When presented with an outlook that say, 30% of people contract cancer, most of us would overstate the probability of us being a part of the statistic. The optimism is at times irrational, and surprisingly persistent. Science would also lead us to the conclusion that this bias is in fact, key to evolution and the survival of the human race. The Bible has a lot to say about hope. Throughout the Psalms we see David asserting hope as consolation in the midst of desperate situations (Psalm 42:5). It was hope that drove the faith of our forefathers (Romans 4:18). And it is the same hope that drives us in our present reality for Christ's return (Titus 2:13-14).

Science has a caveat to this optimism bias - depressed people have a greater inclination to see reality for what it is, and perhaps worse. Who amongst us has never had a negative thought? I myself have spent a large part of my life vacillating between hope and my own cynicism.

I believe that hope has everything to do with who you place your hope in. I am convinced that the bias towards optimism, while inherent in humanity, will send you spiraling when you come to the brutal realization that all your perceptions of self, humankind, and fate do not match even your rosy expectations. It matters, then, that for hope to have its most lasting effect, the security of our faith must be certain.