A shared framework
of values
2.
chapter |
2.
A shared framework of values
1.
The choices we make in life, whether as individuals or as a nation, reflect
the values we hold. Values give rise to goals, which in turn determine policies and
strategies. Values are often hidden or unnamed, and when this happens there is a
danger of becoming lost in a debate about strategies and losing sight of what we
ultimately want to achieve. In this chapter, therefore, the Commission sets out a
framework of values as a reference device to guide the processes of analysis and
formulation.
2.
But where do those values come from? It would be inappropriate for four
people to impose their own values on the life of the nation, and we do not seek to
do so. But after weeks of hearings and our many public meetings and hui around
New Zealand, it appears to us that it is possible to name a set of values that many
New Zealanders would recognise as things we hold in common. The Warrant
establishing the Commission also implied certain values by listing various matters
we were to take into account in reaching our conclusions.
3.
Sharing similar values, however, does not mean that everyone will necessarily
reach the same conclusions about strategies to give effect to those values. Those
who appeared before the Commission had very different ideas on how to achieve
similar goals such as environmental, cultural and economic well-being. But value
identification goes some way to ensure congruence between goals and strategies,
and to enable different groups to see their own goals more broadly, and in
relationship with others.
4. We identify seven values pertinent to this Report:
*
The uniqueness of Aotearoa/New Zealand The environment of any country is
unique, and New Zealand's is made more so by its geographical isolation, its
relatively low population density, and the ecosystem, flora and fauna specific
to this nation. Decisions need to be tailor-made to fit those features and
circumstances which are uniquely ours.
*
The uniqueness of our cultural heritage The Treaty of Waitangi created a
special relationship between tangata whenua (people of the land) and
tangata tiriti (the settlers who came later). New Zealanders recognise the
essential element of Maori heritage in the New Zealand culture of today.
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*
Sustainability The need to sustain our unique but fragile environment for
generations yet to come was often and passionately mentioned by many.
Tangata whenua use the word kaitiakitanga (stewardship) to describe the
same concept. Any estimate of benefits and costs must include sustainability
as a central criterion. An environment that is cherished and cared for is not
just a survival mechanism; it is for many also a source of spiritual and cultural
hope.
*
Being part of a global family To be geographically isolated is not to be
isolationist. New Zealanders are very much world citizens in terms of travel,
trade, and partnerships of knowledge and endeavour. While safeguarding
those things that are uniquely ours, we also share in global developments.
We live in a creative partnership with other nations, being influenced by
them and yet also having the capacity to exercise leadership among them.
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The well-being of all Meeting the needs of all New Zealanders requires a
robust economy with equally robust systems to ensure positive educational,
health and social outcomes. Economic and social goals are not mutually
exclusive. They are, in fact, symbiotic. A strong economy makes possible the
provision of effective educational, health and social systems, and a population
that has benefited from those systems contributes in turn to a strong
economy.
*
Freedom of choice As a nation of diverse peoples, cultures and beliefs we
need to recognise such plurality by allowing for maximum freedom of
choice. Freedom to make my choice, however, also means allowing others
the freedom to make theirs. In a democratic nation freedom in diversity
requires a flexible and cooperative spirit to ensure that as far as possible
everyone's freedoms are maintained.
*
Participation A democratic nation requires effective systems of
consultation and shared decision-making. The Commission has sought
to consult with as many New Zealanders as possible, and to value the
viewpoint of "the average Kiwi" as much as the viewpoint of well-
resourced organisations. National policies are most likely to succeed
when they arise out of processes of participation, and we hope that this
Report reflects this fundamental value.
5.
We invite readers to compare their own values with those we have set out
above and to keep them in mind as a backdrop to this Report.
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The values in practice
To give effect to the seven core values just named, the Commission established three
spheres or sets of criteria to apply when assessing potential applications of genetic
modification techniques. The spheres and the relationships between them are
illustrated below. While there is some overlap, the cultural, ethical and spiritual
sphere broadly reflects the values of the Treaty of Waitangi, freedom of choice, and
participation. The values of uniqueness and sustainability, and aspects of the value of
well-being, fall within the environment and health sphere. Global family values and
other aspects of well-being belong in the economic and strategic sphere.
7 core values
The 3 sets of criteria
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