Overview

Arnulf Kolstad (23 April 1942 – 21 May 2020) was a Norwegian social psychologist known for a long academic career and engagement in public debate. Born in Oslo, he spent much of his professional life at what is today the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). His work combined teaching, departmental leadership and contributions to discussions about the social and political role of psychology.

Academic career and positions

Kolstad was appointed to a professorship in social psychology at the then-University of Trondheim in 1986. He later served as head of the Department of Psychology from 1990 to 1992 and became professor emeritus in 2012. Over several decades he guided students and participated in the development of the department and its curriculum at NTNU.

  • Appointed professor in 1986 at the University of Trondheim (now NTNU).
  • Head of Department of Psychology, 1990–1992.
  • Professor emeritus from 2012 onward.

Areas of interest and scholarly role

As a social psychologist, Kolstad worked within a discipline that examines how individuals think, feel and behave in social contexts. His academic role encompassed research, supervision and instruction in topics typical of social psychology: group processes, social influence, attitudes, and the intersection of psychology with political and cultural issues. He also took part in public conversations about social science, emphasizing critical perspectives on how psychological knowledge is used in society.

Public interventions and notable views

Kolstad was not only an academic but also a public commentator. He attracted attention for his criticism of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Liu Xiaobo, describing the decision as an instance of "western arrogance." This remark reflected a broader skepticism he sometimes expressed about how Western institutions interpret and apply standards of human rights and political recognition. The comment provoked discussion in Norway and beyond about the role of academic voices in political debates; for more context see coverage of the Nobel controversy involving Liu Xiaobo.

Legacy and remembrance

Kolstad died in Oslo on 21 May 2020 at the age of 78. Colleagues and former students remember him for his long service to the psychology department and his willingness to bring academic perspectives into public discourse. His career illustrates the multiple roles a social scientist can play: educator, administrator, researcher and public intellectual. For a concise professional reference see an entry listing him as a social psychologist.