Dr Mick Cooper publishes new book “Psychology at the Heart of Social Change"
- Wednesday, December 21, 2022
Dr Mick Cooper, Professor in our School of Psychology, is publishing a new book integrating psychological and social theory to advocate for a new approach to politics.
Over the past century, we’ve built up a detailed and practical understanding of human wellbeing and distress, but we live in times of huge uncertainty and conflict, and face unprecedented global challenges. The book explores how psychotherapy and psychology can be used to move us from a politics of blame to a politics of understanding.
Within the book, Prof. Cooper creates a practical vision for society where those who shape our political landscape understand our psychological needs more deeply, allowing us to live rich and fulfilling lives.
Prof. Cooper said “Over the last century, we’ve learnt an enormous amount from psychotherapy and counselling about how people can get on better with each other and live more satisfying and fulfilling lives. This knowledge – both practical and theoretical -- has the potential to make a really valuable contribution to creating a better, fairer, more compassionate society.”
Susie Orbach, psychotherapist and author who was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Roehampton in 2022, described the book as “a heartening, bold and inspiring book bringing together psychology and social theory to ask fundamental questions about how we can strive for an equitable and humane society which meets our need to be recognised, connected and seen.”
Carol Ryff from the University of Wisconsin-Madison said: “Just when we most need it, Cooper delivers a brilliant message about why psychology is essential to achieve social change in our era. He’s right: progressive politics needs therapy, which he delivers with a beautiful vision. Anyone concerned about creating a more cooperative, caring world must read this book.”
“Psychology and the Heart of Social Change” will be published by Policy Press on January 16, 2023 and can be purchased via the Policy Press website.
Register to join the online launch on Tuesday 31 January, 12pm – 1pm here.