ABSTRACT Science for Whom: Manufacturing social consent for government policies through the control of science production. For decades the science diplomacy community have emphasised the importance of evidence-based science and the role of the honest broker. This presumes that the science produced and presented equally represents the complexity of issues […]
Innovation & Ignorance. How Science Funding Schemes Deter the Production of Uncomfortable Knowledge ABSTRACT Scientific research funding schemes emphasise innovation. However, this emphasis steers scientists away from producing what Rayner would refer to as ‘uncomfortable knowledge’. This is knowledge that spans the void between wicked problems and the solutions required […]
SOCIOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION OF AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND (2025) CONFERENCE. ABSTRACT: Building in policy for ‘fantastically cheerful medicine’. New Zealand’s health strategy lacks explicit targets, policies, or resources to slow or reverse the twin crises of metabolic and mental health. A pioneering U.K. clinic has developed a health-coach model that has achieved […]
SOCIOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION OF AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND (2025) CONFERENCE ABSTRACT Exposing the treatment gap: When New Zealand’s long-term mental wellbeing strategy ignores the role of nutrition in protecting and sustaining mental health. The treatment of poor mental health in New Zealand remains dominated by psychological therapies, pharmaceuticals, and self-care. Government agencies […]
On September 16 2023 I was honoured to present at the NZDSOS, (New Zealand Doctors Speaking Out on Science) annual conference. The theme was Truth, Justice and Healing. A talk on democracy, institutional failure & justice. The Grand Hall at Eden Park stadium, in Auckland was filled to the brim […]