"We are delighted that Professor Jost, who is an international leader in research that attempts to understand this paradox, is coming to New Zealand for these lectures."
In the second lecture, on Tuesday evening, Jost and Victoria University's Associate Professor Marc Wilson will look at how belief systems influence and shape political outcomes.
They will highlight the psychology of political and religious ideologies and how belief systems meet people's needs by reducing uncertainty, managing fears associated with death and allowing us to align ourselves with others.
In the final lecture, on Wednesday evening, Osborne and Jost will explain some of the factors that undermine support for collective action that could bring about real social change.
• The three talks, part of the Vice-Chancellor's Lecture Series, will be held at the university's Owen G Glenn Building at 12 Grafton Rd from 5pm-6pm on Monday and 6pm-7pm on Tuesday and Wednesday.