Publications

Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann’s “spiral of silence” describes how public opinion diverges from private beliefs, a phenomenon intensified by today’s fragmented media landscape, where audiences consume biased content, reinforcing division.

New Zealand’s Modern Slavery Bill, while aimed at addressing exploitation in supply chains, may create compliance burdens without effectively reducing modern slavery, echoing critiques of similar legislation in Australia and the UK.

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) aims to fundamentally reshape German governance by purging civil servants deemed misaligned, threatening democratic norms while mainstream parties also undermine established rules amid rising discontent.

Jim Chalmers’ announcement to end negative gearing mirrors New Zealand’s past reforms that backfired, leading to fewer rental properties and rising rents, demonstrating that housing affordability relies on supply, not tax changes.

The idea of a grand coalition in New Zealand faces challenges; past German experiences show limited reform success and political risks.

The Martian Audit portrays two Martians touring New Zealand, baffled by absurd legalities, ultimately deciding invading Australia would be simpler.

The Martian Audit is a satirical novella featuring Martian auditors who, upon encountering New Zealand’s bureaucratic absurdities, decide the country is not worth conquering, humorously critiquing public policy and governance.

In 2026, New Zealand’s coalition government faced obstacles implementing promised reforms, as bureaucratic resistance led to diluted policies on medicine regulation, planning law, and the Reserve Bank’s powers, highlighting challenges in governmental effectiveness.