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The Way We Are

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The Way We Are

By: Hugh Mackay
Narrated by: Hugh Mackay
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Summary
 Australia's leading social psychologist examines our society today and asks timely and urgent questions about its future

Life is messy. Relationships are complex. Outcomes are uncertain. Yet none of our differences-whether based on ethnicity, politics, religion, cultural tastes and preferences, or gender-are nearly as significant as the humanity we share.

Amidst our epidemics of loneliness, anxiety and depression, and the impacts of entrenched poverty and ubiquitous technology, The Way We Are examines the major trends that are shaking the foundations of the Australian way of life.


Drawing on thousands of interviews over a lifetime of research, Hugh Mackay, much loved and highly respected social psychologist, presents a compelling portrait of Australia today. He celebrates the march towards gender equality and explains the stubborn persistence of misogyny, the anti-social consequences of social media, the complex legacy of the Baby Boomers, and the 'fake wisdom' that guides too much of our thinking. Exploring the steady decline in religious faith and practice, Hugh identifies the many gods we continue to worship, and points to the positive role that dreaming can play in our lives. Though some of his observations may not be easy reading, Hugh's analysis is suffused with affection for our country.


Inspiring, provocative and powerfully argued, The Way We Are is the most important-and uplifting-book you'll read all year. It will encourage you to reflect deeply on the question: What kind of society do we want to become?


'Hugh Mackay is one of this country's most perceptive social commentators.' - Sydney Morning Herald


'Mackay is something of a national treasure.' - Canberra Times©2024 Hugh Mackay (P)2024 W. F. Howes Ltd. Future Studies Social Sciences Sociology
All stars
Most relevant
Ranges over a diverse but connected selection of topics and provokes several moments of self reflection.

A good opportunity to reflect

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It’s always a pleasure to read Hugh Mackay’s thoughts and analysis of Aussie culture and the broader behaviour of humanity. If only more of us (including me) had his insight.

Fascinating deep dive into today’s culture

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It was a great book and insight over a long period of time. The narrator’s voice is a bit dry but a great listen.

The factors that are making us more socially isolated

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.