I still dont understand what hope is for...

I get it, the more hope the better, the less discontent the better, ofc...

But in practice what do they do exactly ? I am playing as "good" (yeah I know it's not D&D but just to get the idea) increase hope at every turn and trying to help everyone etc etc but it only feels like a much harder path... I don't see any benefit to do it so, while reducing hope would bring just more workpower and reduce some mouth to feed

I am not totally convinced by this mechanic tbh, I love the role play/adventure part a lot but as strategy it doesn't feel that right