Tikanga Maori Model

Hirini Moko Mead (2003) has developed a framework using Tikanga Maori and Matauranga Maori to assess contentious issues to find a Maori position on these issues.

His framework uses five tests by which you can assess a Maori stance to an issue. These tests are:

Test 1: The Tapu Aspect - Tapu relates to the sacredness of the person. When evaluating ethical issues, it is important to consider whether there will be a breach of tapu, if there is, will the gain or outcome from the breach be worth it.
Test 2: The Mauri Aspect - Mauri refers to the life essence of a person or object. In an ethical context, one must consider whether the Mauri of an object or a thing will be compromised and to what extent.
Test 3: The Take-utu-ea aspect - Take (Issue) Utu (Cost) Ea (Resolution). Take-utu-ea refers to an issue that requires resolution. Once an issue or conflict has been identified, the utu refers to a mutually agreed upon cost or action that must be undertaken to restore the issue and resolve it.
Test 4: The Precedent aspect. This refers to looking back at previous examples of similar issues that have been resolved in the past. Precedent is used to determine appropriate action for now.
Test 5: The Principles aspect. This refers to a collection of other Maori principles or values that may enhance and inform an ethical debate. Issues such as those listed in the â€˜Community-Upâ€™ Model, manaakitanga, mana, whanaungatanga, tika (right) and noa (neutrality)