Some countries have a written constitution. Some have an unwritten constitution. I don't see how an unwritten constitution has any value, any credibility. In reality, it doesn't in New Zealand. New Zealand apparently has an unwritten constitution. According to some here, not many. According to some that means something. Not many. In my experience and … Continue reading Does New Zealand have a constitution? No. What would a NZ constitution look like?
Controversy
Always leave Clementine, loving is leaving
I was fascinated by the cover story in last weekend's Canvas magazine written by Clementine Ford and Naomi Arnold. She really managed to make being a young Mum sound really, really, awful. Here are some of the quotes that I found most stimulating and thought provoking ..
Who gets to define hate speech?
Hate speech is an intensely controversial topic. I am firmly of the opinion that hate speech should not be further formalised into legislation without a significant amount of public debate. A nation-wide referendum at the very least. There needs to be a great deal of transparency around the process. That is our Democratic right.
Do we understand misogyny?
Do you know what constitutes misogyny? Do you understand what the word misogynist means? I respect the Wikipedia definition of misogyny which states: “…is hatred or contempt for women.” Their definition carries on for another 259 words. All informative. Useful. But that one simple sentence sums it up very succinctly and sensibly. I worry that … Continue reading Do we understand misogyny?
Structural inequality or a culture of excuse making – are we a malfunctioning society?
I am a bit of a study in contrasts. I come from a comfortable middle class background. I have a decent amount of education. But I have worked many, many, blue collar or ‘menial’ jobs on and off since the age of 9 – a paper round to begin with, then a supermarket job, hospitality … Continue reading Structural inequality or a culture of excuse making – are we a malfunctioning society?
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