Big Ideas Hugh Mackay — Australian society in the 21st century
Dec 26, 2024
Hugh Mackay, a distinguished social psychologist with a remarkable 60-year career and 24 books under his belt, engages in a thought-provoking conversation about modern Australian society. He delves into pressing issues like loneliness and technology addiction, reflecting on the Baby Boomers’ impact and social fragmentation. Mackay questions the evolving perceptions of God in a secular world, critiques education funding disparities, and advocates for societal change to combat inequality. His insights provide a compelling lens on the challenges Australia faces today.
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Shared Humanity
- Personal identity is important, but shared humanity is more significant.
- An obsession with personal identity can be unhealthy.
Progress and Fragmentation
- Australia has made extraordinary progress in gender equality over the past 50 years.
- Societal fragmentation is increasing, posing a significant challenge.
Social Fragmentation Factors
- Single-person households are increasing, raising the risk of social isolation.
- Other factors like mobility and busyness also contribute to fragmentation.
