Hermann Broch: 'What's important is promising something to the people, not actually keeping those promises. The people have always lived on hope alone.'

What's important is promising something to the people, not actually keeping those promises. The people have always lived on hope alone.

In his thought-provoking quote, Hermann Broch emphasizes the significance of promising something to the people, rather than actually fulfilling those promises. He suggests that people have always relied on hope as a driving force in their lives, irrespective of whether those hopes materialize or not. At its core, this quote encapsulates the power of the human imagination and the role of promises in shaping our perceptions of the future.At a surface level, Broch's quote seems to suggest that promises are merely illusory reassurances, devoid of any real impact or necessity. It implies that people are more interested in the idea of hope and possibility rather than the tangible fulfillment of those aspirations. In a world where promises are frequently broken, this notion may resonate with individuals who have experienced disappointment and are wary of placing too much trust in words.However, delving deeper, this quote introduces an unexpected philosophical concept that challenges our conventional understanding of promises. It prompts us to ponder whether the act of making promises is, in fact, more consequential than their eventual fulfillment. This concept draws attention to the psychological and emotional significance attached to promises.Promises hold the potential to ignite our imagination, creating a vision of a better future. They provide us with a sense of direction and purpose, laying the groundwork for our hopes and dreams. Therefore, the act of promising becomes an intrinsic part of our human experience.Consider a child awaiting their birthday, eagerly anticipating the fulfillment of promises made by loved ones. The excitement generated by these promises fuels their imagination, instilling a sense of joy and wonder. Even if some promises are not fulfilled, it is the act of making them that allows the child to revel in the anticipation and the accompanying feeling of hope.This philosophical perspective should not be misconstrued as an excuse for deception or the intentional breaking of promises. Rather, it invites us to examine the profound impact promises have on our emotional well-being. Promises can serve as sources of motivation and inspiration, awakening our creativity and providing us with a roadmap towards our aspirations.Through contrast, this quote invites us to consider the role of promises in fostering personal growth and resilience. While it is important to be cautious and discerning when trusting the promises of others, it is equally vital to recognize the potential within ourselves to make and keep promises. It calls for a balance between the optimism and hope generated by promises and the responsibility to fulfill our commitments.Ultimately, Hermann Broch's quote challenges our understanding of promises and their significance in our lives. It suggests that promises are not solely about the end result, but rather about the journey they enable us to embark upon. By embracing the power of promises and the hope they inspire, we can tap into our own potential and co-create a future that aligns with our aspirations.In a world where promises are often broken or disregarded, the act of promising becomes an act of defiance against cynicism and despair. It is through the manifestation of our promises that we demonstrate our commitment to hope and our unwavering belief in the power of imagination. So, let us not dismiss promises as empty words, but rather view them as catalysts for growth, transformation, and the fulfillment of our wildest dreams.