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Government Axes Humanities Research Funding

Government Axes Humanities Research Funding

The decision to cut funding sparks concern from researchers.

The New Zealand Government has announced plans to axe all Humanities and Social Science research funding through the Marsden Fund, a move that has been met with alarm by experts in the field. According to Scott Willis, Green Party Spokesperson for Science and Research, this decision marks a significant setback for critical thinking and evidence-based policy.

"The social sciences are essential for understanding and addressing the big challenges we face," said Mr. Willis. "However, this Government has consistently undermined the science community while ignoring its advice." He emphasized that a well-resourced social science and humanities sector is crucial in countering misinformation and disinformation.

The decision to cut funding has left researchers uncertain about their future. The Marsden Fund currently provides vital support for many projects, and its abolition will only exacerbate the chronic underfunding of the sector. As Mr. Willis noted, "We can and must invest in research if we want to find answers to our most pressing problems." The Government's decision has sparked widespread concern among researchers and experts, who fear that this move will have far-reaching consequences for New Zealand's scientific community.