The words we use for people and places assert our identity in the world.
When I read that Victoria University of Wellington may change its name to avoid confusion with universities over-seas (more than 10 have “Victoria” in their titles), my initial reaction was not positive.
After seeing the argument laid out in reasonable detail, I’m not sure I can rationally fault it. My opposition is more emotional.
I work at the university, all my qualifications (and other guff people put on their walls with pride) have the Victoria University of Wellington crest and name on them. It is part of my personal identity and my social identity.
I don’t typically spend a lot of time thinking about the name of my employer, but it’s tightly locked into the mental picture I have of where I study and work, and who I am. Changing it then, is a wrench.
This story is from the June 2 - 8 2018 edition of New Zealand Listener.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2 - 8 2018 edition of New Zealand Listener.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
First-world problem
Harrowing tales of migrants attempting to enter the US highlight the political failure to fully tackle the problem.
Applying intelligence to AI
I call it the 'Terminator Effect', based on the premise that thinking machines took over the world.
Nazism rears its head
Smirky Höcke, with his penchant for waving with a suspiciously straight elbow and an open palm, won't get to be boss of either state.
Staying ahead of the game
Will the brave new world of bipartisanship that seems to be on offer with an Infrastructure Commission come to fruition?
Grasping the nettle
Broccoli is horrible. It smells, when being cooked, like cat pee.
Hangry? Eat breakfast
People who don't break their fast first thing in the morning report the least life satisfaction.
Chemical reaction
Nitrates in processed meats are well known to cause harm, but consumed from plant sources, their effect is quite different.
Me and my guitar
Australian guitarist Karin Schaupp sticks to the familiar for her Dunedin concerts.
Time is on my side
Age does not weary some of our much-loved musicians but what keeps them on the road?
The kids are not alright
Nuanced account details how China's blessed generation has been replaced by one consumed by fear and hopelessness.
