UPES on May 3 hosted Prof. Miles Hewstone, a luminary in the field of social psychology and Professor Emeritus at the University of Oxford, to discuss ‘Liberal Studies: A Degree or a Superpower?’, at a powerful and thought-provoking session at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi. Organised by the School of Liberal Studies and Media at UPES, the event explored the evolution of Psychology and its growing relevance in shaping future careers and inclusive societies.
He captivated the Delhi audience with his profound insights into human behaviour, intergroup dynamics, and the psychological forces behind conformity, altruism, and decision-making. Drawing on decades of scholarship across Oxford, Bristol, Mannheim, and Cardiff, Prof. Hewstone powerfully demonstrated why Liberal Studies — especially Psychology, Political Science, History, and Journalism — are not just relevant, but indispensable in today’s polarised and digitally driven world.
In today’s world, with rising mental health challenges, digital fatigue, and social division, Psychology offers vital tools to decode behaviour, reduce bias, and promote inclusion. As noted in the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report 2023, it is key to developing emotionally intelligent, socially conscious citizens in the 21st century. Against this backdrop, Prof. Hewstone’s visit proved invaluable for B.Sc. Psychology and Behaviour students at UPES, who engaged with him directly through sessions exploring core themes — from landmark experiments to the dynamics of conformity, altruism, aggression, and social norms.
Reflecting on the session, Prof. Hewstone remarked, “It has been a privilege to spend these past weeks with the students and faculty at UPES and to conclude this academic journey here in New Delhi. In times of growing social complexity, liberal education empowers us to think critically, act compassionately, and bridge divides. Psychology, in particular, offers powerful tools to help us understand ourselves and the world around us.”
Commenting on the success of the event and Prof. Hewstone’s visit, Dr. Atri Nautiyal, Director, School of Liberal Studies and Media, UPES said, “It has been intellectually transformative and deeply enriching for our students. Prof. Hewstone’s ability to connect psychological theory with real-world issues embodies the essence of liberal education — curiosity, critical thought, and meaningful connection. His presence has left a lasting impact, especially on our Psychology and Behaviour students who had the rare chance to learn from a global authority in the field.”
The session also featured other distinguished panel of UPES faculty members, including Dr. Richa Chilana, Cluster Head; Dr. Amaresh Jha and Himanshu Jha, Associate Professors; and Yamini Negi, Assistant Professor. Together, they shared perspectives on how liberal education is evolving at UPES and opening diverse and meaningful career pathways for students.
Prof. Miles Hewstone, a distinguished Fellow at New College, Oxford, and former Professor of Social Psychology at the University of Oxford, is in India exclusively at the invitation of UPES. Since last month, he has been conducting a series of transformative lectures and workshops at the university’s Dehradun campus.
This academic engagement reaffirmed UPES’ commitment to global collaboration and interdisciplinary learning, while highlighting its position as a progressive, research-driven university shaping future-ready minds.
