Summarised by Centrist
A recent survey of 316 New Zealand scientists has revealed the extent to which mātauranga Māori (MM)—the Māori “ways of knowing”—is gaining acceptance among non-Māori researchers.
According to the survey, 56% of non-Māori scientists believe MM should be valued on par with Western science, and 83% feel obligated to consult Māori when research affects their communities.
Jerry Coyne, Ph.D., Emeritus Professor of Ecology and Evolution at the University of Chicago hypothesises that “many of these non-Māori scientists are hiding their real feelings, knowing that they could get fired or exorcised if they don’t go along with the ideological program.”
Coyne argues that while MM includes practical knowledge such as fishing techniques and environmental practices, it also incorporates spiritual, moral, and mythological beliefs. According to Coyne, this trend reflects ideological capture rather than a balanced integration of Indigenous perspectives.
Notably, the study found stark gender differences: 75% of female scientists supported the equivalency of MM and Western science, compared to 44% of male scientists. Researchers suggested this disparity might stem from women’s greater empathy and openness to cultural frameworks.
Additionally, proponents of MM highlight its potential to create “bold innovation,” citing examples like using traditional materials to aid green-lipped mussel reproduction. However, Coyne asks If merging Matauranga Māori with western science is so successful, “why do we find the same example used repeatedly?”
