Rate Professor Brock Bastian

Professional Summary: Professor Brock Bastian

Professor Brock Bastian is a distinguished academic at the University of Melbourne, Australia, recognized for his contributions to social psychology with a focus on ethics, morality, and well-being. With a career dedicated to understanding the psychological underpinnings of human behavior, he has emerged as a leading voice in his field through research, publications, and public engagement.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Bastian holds advanced degrees in psychology, reflecting his deep commitment to academic rigor:

• Ph.D. in Social Psychology, University of Melbourne, Australia (completed in 2007)
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology, University of Melbourne, Australia

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Bastian’s research primarily explores the intersection of social psychology and ethics, with specific interests in:

• The psychological mechanisms of moral decision-making
• The role of pain and suffering in shaping happiness and well-being
• Social and cultural influences on ethical behavior
• Human-animal relations and the psychology of meat consumption

His work often challenges conventional views on happiness, proposing that discomfort and pain can play constructive roles in personal growth and societal cohesion.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Bastian has held several prestigious academic positions, contributing to both teaching and research:

• Professor, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne (current position)
• Associate Professor, University of Melbourne (prior role)
• Lecturer and Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Queensland, Australia (earlier career)

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Professor Bastian’s contributions to psychology have been recognized through various accolades:

• ARC Future Fellowship, Australian Research Council (2014–2018), supporting his research on the psychology of well-being
• Wegner Theoretical Innovation Prize, Society for Personality and Social Psychology (2011), for innovative contributions to the field

Key Publications

Professor Bastian has authored numerous influential works, including books and peer-reviewed articles. Notable publications include:

• The Other Side of Happiness: Embracing a More Fearless Approach to Living (2018) – A popular science book exploring the value of pain and struggle in achieving happiness
• “Pain as Social Glue: Shared Pain Increases Cooperation” – Published in Psychological Science (2014)
• “The Roles of Dehumanization and Moral Outrage in Retributive Justice” – Published in PLoS ONE (2013)
• “Meat and Morality: The Moral Psychology of Eating Animals” – Published in various journals, reflecting ongoing research themes

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Bastian’s research has significantly shaped contemporary understandings of morality and well-being within social psychology. His innovative perspectives on the constructive role of pain have influenced both academic discourse and public policy, particularly in areas related to mental health and ethical behavior. His work on human-animal relations has also contributed to discussions on sustainability and dietary choices, bridging psychology with broader societal issues.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Bastian is actively engaged in the academic community and public outreach:

• Regular speaker at international conferences on social psychology and ethics
• Contributor to public media, including articles and interviews on well-being and morality in outlets such as The Conversation and The Guardian
• Serves on editorial boards and as a peer reviewer for leading psychology journals