John Lennon sang "Imagine" with the hopes of delivering a positive message of peace throughout the world.
And in his new book, Defending Identity, Natan Sharansky seeks to deliver that same message - but instead by emphasizing the indispensable role of identity in protecting democracy.
Sharansky, a former Soviet dissident, human rights activist, Israeli politician and recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal, joined hundreds of students and community members last night at Hillel in a dialogue about human rights, freedom, justice and democracy.
A humble and engaging speaker, Sharansky reflected on his time imprisoned in the Gulag - the USSR's penal labor system - where he said he found strength and inner freedom.
There, he realized that in fighting for its right to exist, Israel was fighting for the dignity of all Jews.
"You need something that makes your life bigger than physical survival," he said.
In his book, he asserts that the only way for freedom-loving nations to stay strong is to embrace their unique identities and not dilute their national character.
Sharansky encouraged Israel advocacy and conversation between the multicultural student groups on campus.
He explained that in order to better understand both sides, students should research the facts.
But according to Sharansky, the only way to protect the democratic world from those who identify with tyranny is to be prepared to fight and die for freedom.
"It's not surprising that we can't defend our freedom when you don't see it as something to die for," he said. "Life needs meaning, which is given to you by your identity."
Still, Sharansky is a self-proclaimed optimist. He said he believes time will tell whether or not Israel's Operation Cast Lead in Gaza was effective and hopefully peace can soon be attained between the Israelis and the Palestinians.
Following the event, people immediately began discussing the issues raised by Sharansky.
"It was interesting to hear how his experiences in the Soviet Union still apply today," College junior Alex Leavy said.
