Elizabeth Rata, a sociologist of education from the University of Auckland and director of KERU, dives into the critical issues reshaping education. She critiques the shift from merit to equity in schools, advocating for a balanced curriculum. Rata emphasizes the significance of literature and language, while addressing concerns over curriculum decolonization. The conversation further explores the crisis in American education, the need for critical thinking, and the power dynamics shaping modern academic discourse. Rata argues for a return to foundational knowledge in education.

Elizabeth Rata, a sociologist from the University of Auckland, discusses the Treaty of Waitangi's place in our law. Topics include the lack of a fixed definition, the power grab by retribalists, the debate over including the Treaty in legislation, the legitimacy of the political system, the Māori Party's support for co-governance, sovereignty, historical reasons for present issues in the Māori community.