“Hope is a waking dream.”
- 384 BC – 322 BC
- Originating from Macedonia in ancient Greece
- Philosopher and scientist, founder of the Lyceum academy
- A student of Plato, he constructed systematic knowledge in logic, biology, politics, ethics, etc., and had a major impact on the development of Western thought and science
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Quote
“Hope is a waking dream.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle compares hope to a dream that we experience while awake, emphasizing that both are forms of aspiration and anticipation about the future. A dream is often a product of our imagination, filled with idealized scenarios and wishes, and similarly, hope involves envisioning a desired outcome or future that may not yet exist. Hope motivates us to look forward to something better, and it can fuel our efforts to achieve goals, much like how dreams can inspire action in the real world. However, just as dreams are not always grounded in reality, hope can sometimes be based on unrealistic or overly optimistic expectations, which can lead to disappointment if not carefully managed.
This idea resonates in modern discussions about motivation, goal-setting, and psychology. Hope is a powerful force that can drive individuals to persevere through challenges and uncertainty. It can provide the emotional energy needed to strive for improvement, even when outcomes are uncertain. However, just like a dream, hope can sometimes be detached from the practical realities of a situation, and it may require action and grounded planning to become a tangible reality.
For example, a person who hopes to start their own business may be fueled by the dream of success and fulfillment. However, to make this hope a reality, they must take practical steps, such as planning, learning about their field, and securing resources. Aristotle’s quote suggests that while hope can inspire us to reach for higher goals, we must also be mindful of the reality and the steps required to turn that hope into achievement.
