June 29, 2018

Dr Hugh Mackay launches new book on state of Australian society

Author and social researcher to hold Q+A, sign books at UOW

Renowned sociologist and best-selling author Dr Hugh Mackay AO will celebrate the launch of his new book on Friday (29 June) during an event at the University of Wollongong (UOW).

Dr Mackay has devoted his career to uncovering what makes us tick, and his latest book, Australia Reimagined: Towards a More Compassionate, Less Anxious Society, examines what ails modern society, and how we can change the way we live our lives.

Dr Mackay is an Honorary Professor of Social Sciences at UOW and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters by the University in 2016.

In Australia Reimagined, Dr Mackay shows how an unprecedented run of economic growth has failed to deliver a more stable and harmonious society. In fact, he argues, we more depressed, more anxious, more socially fragmented than ever before.

In the book, he offers a path to a more compassionate society in a call to action to all who want to make Australia a better place for the future.

“When it comes to our future, misplaced optimism is as dangerous as blind faith,” Dr Mackay said in the book. “What is needed is courage to face the way things are, and the wisdom and imagination to work out how to make things better.”

On Friday, Dr Mackay will discuss Australia Reimagined and sign books for the audience.

Dr Mackay is an expert in psychology, social research, and ethics. In 2015 was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia. He has authored 19 books, including the best selling Beyond Belief, The Art of Belonging, and The Good Life.