Maxim Institute's regular email publication Real Issues provides thought- provoking analysis of developments in policy and culture in New Zealand and around the world.
One of the ways in which Maxim Institute engages in issues is through the development of policy, and by conducting research and analysis. To read what Maxim Institute has to say, choose an area below.
The importance of education
Education forges the character of our nation and provides people with the skills they need to flourish in life.
New Zealand needs a high quality education system which recognises the diverse needs of pupils.
It must therefore be a system built upon freedom and trust, where parents are able to access the most suitable school for their child and where schools have the freedom to promote excellence.
Why family matters
The family shapes human identity and character. It is our most intimate source of connection and belonging.
At the heart of the family is the public and life-long commitment between a man and a woman, surrounded, supported and enriched by extended family.
The family is the first place of welfare, education, care and compassion. The family connects the generations and sustains social order. As such, the state has an interest in the welfare of the family.
The need for civil society
Human beings are by nature relational creatures; we thrive in communities and wilt in isolation.
The communities of civil society help people in ways that government never can; they arise from relationships and have a human face. A New Zealand with strong communities is one where people are connected and prosper.
The communities of civil society include the public, non-political dimensions of social life such as sports clubs, charities, churches, youth voluntary associations and trade unions.
Developing a sustainable economy
It is through work, ownership and trade in a sustainable economy that we best meet people's material needs. We must acknowledge this in our approach to the economy and related areas such as taxation and employment laws.
Our economic policies must enable people to create wealth by encouraging and rewarding effort, creativity and innovation.
A government and its citizens
Legitimate democratic government requires an informed and engaged public. It also requires the government to be accountable to the people it serves through the electoral process.
Government must respect rights and freedoms and observe constitutional limits on its power and processes. It should understand its proper role and duties and allow citizens, families and communities to thrive.
Protecting dignity through law
All human life has inherent dignity worthy of protection in law. This dignity is the foundation of our rights and freedoms, which, by definition, are common to all people by virtue of their shared humanity.
Human rights do not depend on a person's race, religion, social background, wealth or identification with a particular social or political group - they are universal.
The value of social justice
It is a fundamental duty of any society to ensure that weak and vulnerable members are cared for.
Welfare policy needs to approach humans holistically, recognising that their needs are more than simply material.
Because welfare is at its best when it is delivered relationally - through families, neighbourhoods, voluntary organisations and churches - as far as possible, welfare should be delivered by communities rather than state agencies.
We all need to take responsibility for working towards social justice if we want justice, freedom and compassion to flourish in New Zealand.
Significant legislation
Every week elected representatives in this country work on legislation that will affect our everyday lives.
In a democracy where the people are responsible for keeping the government to account it is imperative that the electorate is aware of and informed about significant legislation.
Influence through submissions
In New Zealand the public have a remarkable level of access to decision makers and to the parliamentary process.
This access includes the opportunity to make submissions on bills, discussion documents and the like.
Maxim Institute takes the opportunity, where we have relevant expertise, to make submissions and we encourage members of the public to do likewise.
