Retorts

Pride and Prejudice

One could well be accused of exhibiting intellectual hubris when stating that science is a European invention, or even cultural insensitivity or prejudice [April 97].

Such a claim has been one of the contributing factors that has made non-Europeans disinclined to take up science. It is well known in education circles in New Zealand that Maori children have responded that atoms and particles are a pakeha thing and therefore of no interest to them. Claiming that science is solely European serves only to reinforce the image of it being an area in which Maori -- and other minorities too -- are not welcome to participate.

The same argument holds for women too. If science is a product of European males, then it is hardly surprising that women are just as disenfranchised as other minorities.

K.Kerr, Christchurch

Keep an eye out for upcoming Spotlight features on winners of the Tuapapa Putaiao Maori Fellowships.