November 29, 2022

UOW hosts Dr Hugh Mackay for a talk on ‘The Kindness Revolution’

Crises and catastrophes such as the pandemic often bring out the best in us, but will we remember the lessons we learnt?

Renowned social psychologist and former University of Wollongong (UOW) Honorary Professor Hugh Mackay will host a free community event talking about his latest book, The Kindness Revolution and the importance of kindness in the modern world on Wednesday 7 December.

Dr Mackay is the author of 22 books, including eight novels. His non-fiction writing covers social analysis, psychology, communication and ethics. He has had a 60-year career in social research and was also a weekly newspaper columnist for 25 years.

The event will be hosted by the School of Psychology within the Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities and will be open to the general public and the UOW community.

Dr Mackay’s optimistic take on life and humanity in the book points to the ways we can bring out the best in ourselves and in our society, in both good and troubled times. The Kindness Revolution reflects on the challenges faced by humanity during the devastating 2020 bushfires that shook the country, followed by the Covid pandemic, and then the floods.

“The question is whether we are ready to apply the lessons 2020 has taught us,” Dr Mackay says.

“I am convinced the potential is there and, as you read The Kindness Revolution, I hope you will share my optimism.

“Crises like COVID have the potential to mitigate the effects of those divisive and fragmenting social trends by reminding us of the importance of kindness and the need to make personal sacrifices for the common good. The question is: can we remember those lessons and turn the crisis into a revolution?”

The book shows how crises and catastrophes often turn out to be the making of us, and explains how radical kindness is the key to healing.

A quote from the book sums up Dr Mackay’s thoughts about the world: “To be kind – always and to everyone – is to be fully, gloriously human, and every act of kindness is one more step towards a better society.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with Dr Mackay during the Q&A session at the end of the event. Copies of the new book will be on sales, and Dr Mackay will be signing all copies purchased.

During his visit to UOW, Dr Mackay will also take part in an In Conversation panel discussion for university staff on bringing forward a person-centred approach to supporting equity, diversity and inclusion at UOW.

EVENT DETAILS:

The Kindness Revolution with Hugh Mackay

Date: Wednesday 7 December

Time: 3.00 pm    

Location: UOW main campus, Building 20, Lecture Theatre 1