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- ItemAn examination of Alfred North Whitehead’s “Philosophy of Organism” to determine compatibility with contemporary arguments for the primacy of process in science of biology : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Philosophy at Massey University, Distance, New Zealand(Massey University, 2024) Wilson, Michael PaulAlfred North Whitehead’s ‘Philosophy of Organism’ is a philosophy that does not deny the existence of things in the world such as tables and chairs, but asserts that everything is ultimately made of processes. The purpose of this thesis is to understand better whether Whitehead’s philosophy is relevant to contemporary process philosophers of biology. John Dupré and Daniel Nicholson are examples of contemporary philosophers of biology who claim that living beings should be viewed as ‘processes’, as Whitehead envisaged, and not as “things” or “substances”. Specifically, we are interested in those topics associated with process ontology and epistemology in the context of the science of biology. The thesis is composed of four parts. The first chapter provides an overview of the historical background of process philosophy and the issues that arose in its development. The second chapter examines Alfred North Whitehead’s philosophy of organism. Next, I present an analysis of contemporary philosophers of biology and their process theories, including the work of Daniel Nicholson and John Dupré, Johanna Seibt, Stephan Guttinger and Thomas Pradeu. Lastly, I provide arguments regarding the relevance of Whitehead’s philosophy to contemporary philosophers of biology and their process philosophies. Part of this analysis will involve comparisons of these views with generally accepted process qualities distilled from contemporary process philosophers such as Nicholas Rescher, Didier Debaise and George Lucas. The thesis makes the positive claim that Whitehead’s philosophical contributions are still relevant to contemporary process philosophers of biology, beyond what is currently recognised. If Whitehead’s arguments were to be taken more seriously, this would strengthen the arguments of contemporary process philosophy in the domain of philosophy of biology.
- ItemOne with the waters : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Creative Writing (MCW) at Massey University, New Zealand(Massey University, 2024) Campbell, Patricia FernAlice Oswald’s book-length poem Dart is a work of ecopoetry that layers the voices of the Dart River’s humans with the voice of the river itself. By using notions of duality and place from a Western perspective, Oswald’s poetry weaves a connection with the river and the surrounding Devon landscape that could be used as a spur to ecological responsibility. This metaphorical “river speaking as a human” analogy connects the reader with the river, while simultaneously drawing attention to the ecological concerns present within the human-river connection. Oswald’s perspective uses the voices of people and stories that have been told along the river to show the strong connection of people to the river, while keeping the stream as an object separate to the people. From a Te Ao Māori perspective, the connection to a river is implicit, due to its differing relational ontology, where the river is the person and vice-versa. The conflict between stream-as-object and stream-as-being is visible in the treatment of Wharemauku Stream, the waterway that stretches through Paraparaumu, a town in the North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand. This stream has been modified throughout the length of Pākehā occupation of Paraparaumu - carved and straightened to run down property boundaries and routed under roads, rather than allowed to spread where its waters naturally would, in the interests of keeping the land and roads nearby financially viable. This has impacted on the wairua and mana of both the stream and the mana whenua of this rohe. A Kaupapa Māori approach that incorporates poetry for educating and connecting local people with the stream could help to spur ecological responsibility while also increasing the wairua and mana of the stream and its people. A hybrid method, using Oswald’s method of speaking for the river using a human voice, but giving the river personhood and agency using a Te Ao Māori approach of whakapapa and kaitiakitanga, is the work of this thesis.
- ItemEffect of grazing rotation interval and defoliation residual height on the botanical composition, yield and quality of hyper-diverse pastures : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Agricultural Science at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand(Massey University, 2024) Wood, Rebekah LynairePastoral farming systems in New Zealand currently heavily rely on Lolium perenne L. (perennial ryegrass)-Trifolium repens L. (white clover) (relatively simple) pasture mixtures. However, there are problems with seasonal growth fluctuations, creating periods of feed deficit and surplus. Further, these species result in low nitrogen (N) use efficiency, leading to high N concentrations in urine, N leaching and nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions. Pressure on these farming systems has grown to improve productivity, efficiency and mitigate environmental impacts. It has been suggested that diverse pastures (those including mixtures of grass, legume and herb species) may provide improved yield, seasonal distribution of pasture supply and quality through the inclusion of species with different characteristics (i.e. heat and drought tolerance, deeper rooting). However, the success of a given pasture mixture is largely dependent on management. Whilst there is a plethora of literature looking into defoliation management of diverse pastures, there is a dearth of studies looking at hyper-diverse pastures (those including >9 species from at least 3 different functional groups). The objectives of this research were to examine how differing defoliation management (i.e. residual height and defoliation interval) impacted the botanical composition, yield and quality of hyper-diverse pasture mixtures. This study indicated that, whilst a large number of species were sown (18 species in the dairy mixture and 19 species in the sheep mixture), less than half were observed to remain present throughout the study period of 7 months (November 2022 to May 2023). Of those present, there were only several that dominated (i.e. perennial ryegrass, white clover, Plantago lanceolata L. (plantain) and Trifolium pratense L. (red clover), and they were not sensitive to any residual height or interval treatments, over the period of this study. The reversion of the hyper-diverse mixtures to a smaller number of dominant species within a short timeframe poses the question of whether it would have been easier to create a simpler pasture mixture at the outset. However, the survival and dominance of species was undoubtedly driven by edaphic conditions, along with the prevailing climate at time of sowing and throughout the experimental period, and interactions between these and the defoliation management. Overall, there was a general trend where a longer defoliation interval (9 weeks) reduced total yield, whilst shorter intervals (3 and 6 weeks) increased yieldsin association with higher residual heights. There were no significant differences in nutritive value parameters, but there were trends in the data which showed that higher residual heights and longer rotations resulted in increased lignin and neutral detergent fibre and decreased metabolisable energy for these pastures during May. However, regardless of treatment, the nutritive value parameters showed that these hyper-diverse pasture mixtures are capable of maintaining high animal performance. More research needs to be undertaken before clear recommendations are able to be made regarding likely suitable situation-specific mixtures, and these will vary with region and management system (e.g. dairy, sheep, and beef). Further research should focus on how to achieve successful establishment of a large number of species in mixture, and then to define the optimal defoliation management that will maintain diversity over a longer time period. Overall, the results of this study indicated that hyper-diverse pasture mixtures can be defoliated under a range of residual heights and intervals whilst maintaining yield and quality, although with less diversity, suggesting that these mixtures have the potential to be valuable in New Zealand pastoral systems.
- ItemPredicting nutritional content of native forage feed using ATR-FTIR and NIR chemometrics : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Nanoscience at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand(Massey University, 2024) Coleman, Gregory MauriceNear infrared (NIR) reflectance spectroscopy has historically dominated the agriculture industry in the prediction of the nutritional content of pasture and forage in New Zealand. This study investigates using an alternative infrared reflectance technique in the mid infrared (MIR) region, Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, and compares it to NIR, for the prediction of the chemical composition of native forage feed for sheep. Six native forage species and one non-native control species comprised 181 samples, which were recorded with both NIR and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Spectral pre-treatment was applied to all spectra in the form of a first-order Savitzky-Golay (SG) smoothening filter. Prediction of nutritional content for six analytes was achieved for both IR methods, using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and a Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression model. The predictive ability of ATR-FTIR and NIR models was evaluated using the coefficient of determination (R²), Root Mean Square Error of Cross Validation (RMSECV), and Relative Performance Deviation (RPD). NIR had superior R2 and RPD, and similar RMSECV to ATR-FTIR for all analyte predictions. The best models were crude protein (CP) for NIR (R² : 0.95, RPD: 5.58) and metabolisable energy (ME) for FTIR (R² :0.79, RPD: 3.52). Post prediction statistics were also investigated for FTIR and NIR, finding that a ‘one size fits all’ blanket model for all species and tissue types was sufficient for quality prediction of CP, ME, and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) for native shrub species. These models suggested that ME and NDF predictions were similar between NIR and FTIR but NIR was superior to FTIR for CP. Overall, this study demonstrates the considerable potential of ATR-FTIR for quality nutritional content predictions, that are comparable to NIR.
- ItemEffect of dietary processing on the gut microbiome of dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Animal Science at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand(Massey University, 2024) Tannahill, Lucy MayThe gastrointestinal microbiome of the dog plays important roles in the overall health of the dog. Generally, a greater microbiome diversity is indicative of better gastrointestinal health. The microflora in the gastrointestinal tract can be altered by the diet that the dog is consuming. Therefore, it is important to understand how the diet interacts with the dog’s microbiome, to further expand our knowledge of the overall health of dogs. This study investigated the effects of processing of a series of high meat diets on the gastrointestinal microbiome of dogs. A literature review was carried out to establish the current base of knowledge of the microbiome of the dog, and how the diet may affect it. The nutritional requirements of dogs, as well as how diets are assessed for suitability were also reviewed. To assess the impact of diet changes on the microbiome, a series of standard digestibility trials were run. To do this, a raw version, and a processed version of two diets were fed to a group of dogs over two-week blocks, as well as two high meat kibble diets in subsequent blocks. The faeces were collected over a period of five days, with a final faecal sample taken on the final day. This enabled a digestibility analysis to be completed, and the microbiome to be analysed using 16S sequencing which allowed comparisons to be made between the microbiota present in the gut while the dogs were consuming a raw and processed version of two of the diets and two other high meat diets. A high number of reads were present in all samples after the 16S sequencing was completed, and Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria and Proteobacteria were the phyla present in the largest proportions on average across all the samples. Phascolarctobacterium, Prevotella, Bacteroides and Fusobacterium were the most prominent genera. The diet with the highest microbial diversity was Blackhawk (BH) and the diets with the least were steamed and dried raw (SDR) and Orijen (OR). The two unprocessed diets had lower diversity present in the gut microbiome than their processed counterparts. This suggests that the processing those diets went through did result in positive changes in the microbiota compared to the raw versions. Microbiomes that are more diverse are generally thought of to be healthier than ones with less diversity present.
- ItemSacred star songs of consciousness : cultural contexts of consciousness as symbolic transmission : thesis for the award of Master of Arts, in Social Anthropology at Massey University, School of People, Environment and Planning, New Zealand. EMBARGOED until 17th April 2025.(Massey University, 2024) Eggers, Vivienne TobassaConsciousness is a holistic existential phenomenon. It infuses human culture across personal, social, environmental, and universal domains. Recent interdisciplinary attempts to define consciousness reveal disciplinary divergence and challenge consensual understanding. Anthropological studies attempt to provide deeper cultural insights, but experience issues as contemporary science often dismisses socio-cultural theories as subjective and non-empirical. In neuroscience, the focus on mind, body and brain as internal, biological processes disregards Jungian and other theories on consciousness as external, non-local phenomena, that engage with metaphysics. This research explores consciousness within cultural contexts, investigating its topography, expression and transmission. I observe its phenomenal influence on human experiences and challenge neuroscience's viewpoint of exclusive internal derivation. I propose a phenomenology of cross cultural symbolic communication, that is archetypal and metaphoric in nature. I realign Jung’s concept of the Great Mother Archetype, self and Joseph Campbell’s ‘Hero’s Journey’ to demonstrate a cosmic fundamental source with forces that arise in humanity in processes of alternative consciousness. From review of theoretical literature and visual ethnographies, I apply symbolic anthropology and examine aspects of consciousness, human perceptions and their integral relationships with meaning-making. My research involves cultural astronomy and identifies the role of neurodiversity in the transmission of consciousness from archaic hominins into contemporary society. I find consistency in the monomyth when applied within a panpsychist model of astronomically bound and interconnected forms. The celestial framework denotes a fundamental essence of forces and operating aspects, responsible for the symbolic messages that interact and constitutively influence humanity. This concept is a deviation from Plato’s idea of mathematical forms and Jung’s idea of collective consciousness and unconscious as an immaterial and mental repository of symbols. From research findings, I propose that the intentional and unconscious transmission of primordial symbolism invokes human internal processes, external actions and behaviours. The operations of these cosmic forces and our responsive, human interaction drive the desire for cultural meaning making and explanations of existence in the formation of ritualistic relationships with ‘the other’. I conclude with the reflection of transformation from researching the anthropology of consciousness and describe a forming hypothesis and a conceptual framework for future studies.
- ItemThe effects of having a partner in a first responder occupation on social support and wellbeing in police officers : a thesis presented in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Psychology at Massey University, New Zealand(Massey University, 2024) Wickman, JadeThere has been a surge in research examining the protective effects of social support against the adverse effects of trauma exposure on wellbeing, particularly among first responder roles. Partners are often a fundamental source of support. This study aimed to investigate whether having a partner who is a first responder affects the wellbeing of police officers. The quantitative analysis found a relationship between trauma exposure and Post-traumatic Stress Symptoms; however, neither social support nor perceived social support moderated this relationship. A significant correlation was found between social support and psychological distress. No significant differences were observed between officers with first responder partners and those with civilian partners. Both groups had wide ranges of scores alluding to the complexity of these relationships. Exploratory analysis of the qualitative questions uncovered potential advantages and disadvantages for both partner types. Individuals without partners appeared more vulnerable. These findings underscore the importance for organisations to support not only their employees but also their partners and families. Future research could delve deeper into these findings using qualitative methods to gain a richer understanding of the notions at play.
- ItemEyes and Ias : the case for pronominal diversity in fiction : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Creative Writing at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa, Manawatū, Aotearoa. EMBARGOED until 1st June 2026.(Massey University, 2024) Taylor, Corey PeterAlthough the contemporary pronoun debate in English can at times be heartfelt and vehement, the discursive structure of the debate itself has served to constrain pronoun discourse, reduce the potential for meaning, limit opportunities for the expression of alternative identities, and thereby to maintain a white androcentric norm. That is, despite the efforts of activists and commentators to challenge existing power structures, popular debate has continued to unfold in a self-limiting fashion that reaffirms the ideological status quo. This limitation of discussion is engendered in three ways that are covert and significant: • English personal pronouns – I/me/you – and proforms – he/him/she/her – have been defined as closed-class function words, thereby placing severe restrictions on the acceptability of new usages. • The English third person proforms are gendered, which has limited discussion to gender identity at the expense of other identities such as ethnicity, age, religious affiliation, etc. • The gender distinction in English pertains only to the third person proforms, so that little attention has been paid to the more salient first and second person pronouns. I propose that the ideologically informed limitations placed on pronominal diversity can be effectively challenged from within the field of creative fiction where poetic license is more readily granted and where innovation is more readily accepted.
- ItemDietary intake and food sources of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids of vegans living in New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Human Nutrition, Massey University, Albany, New Zealand(Massey University, 2024) Li, Feiran (Fiona)Background: The vegan diet, which excludes all animal products, poses a high risk of inadequate intake of n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFAs). N-3 LCPUFAs are essential for cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and inflammatory regulation. There is currently limited evidence on the dietary intakes and food sources of n-3 LCPUFAs in vegans. Objective: To investigate the intake, adequacy and main food sources of n-3 LCPUFAs in New Zealand vegans. Methods: This study used a four-day food record to assess the dietary intake of 212 (155 female) New Zealand vegans including energy, total fat, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid intake. The study determined the adequacy of linoleic acid (LA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and n-3 LCPUFAs by comparing intakes with the New Zealand National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommended intakes and calculated the proportion of each fatty acid in the total intake. The main food sources of n-3 LCPUFA were also determined. Results: Mean energy, total fat, polyunsaturated fatty acid, and LA intakes were significantly higher in males than in females, whereas there were no significant differences in intakes of n-3 LCPUFAs, ALA, EPA, DPA, and DHA. Most participants had adequate intakes of LA and ALA, but only a few women met the Adequate Intake (AI) for n-3 LCPUFA. The main food sources were nuts and seeds, mixed dishes and grains, while seaweed dominated EPA and DHA intake. Conclusion: The majority of the participants in this study had inadequate n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid intakes. It may be necessary to optimise the dietary intake of n- 3 long chain fatty acids encouraging the consumption of foods rich in these nutrients.
- ItemExploring health, safety, and wellbeing : perceptions and experiences of workers of refugee background in New Zealand : a thesis presented in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Occupational Health and Safety at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand(Massey University, 2024) Mohamed, AbdulkadirIntroduction: New Zealand is acknowledged as among the most diverse nations in the world, distinguished for its acceptance of individuals from an array of backgrounds as citizens and permanent residents. Refugees have sought safety and security in New Zealand since before World War I, adding to the rich tapestry and culture of the nation. Over time, the nation has proudly endorsed the United Nations Refugee Quota Programme, actively resettling refugees from across the world. Despite this long history of refugee resettlement, there is limited knowledge about the experiences of refugee workers in New Zealand, particularly from an occupational health and safety perspective. Aim: This thesis explores the perceptions and experiences of refugee background workers in New Zealand, aiming to present in depth the complex challenges and circumstances they encounter in the workforce. Method: The research utilises a qualitative approach, integrating semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis to draw out a pattern in the rich narratives of 13 refugee participants. Results: Key themes examined are self-perception, overworking, workplace injury, lack of health and safety at the workplace, discrimination, lack of government support, community support, coping mechanisms and language barrier. Conclusion: The findings reveal that while refugee background workers bring valuable skills and experiences to the New Zealand workforce, they often face significant obstacles, such a discrimination, overrepresentation in injury, perceive a lack of support from the Government and overall face difficulty fully integrating into the workforce. Furthermore, the study underscores the critical need for targeted research for the refugee community’s occupational health and wellbeing. Additionally, we suggest interventions such as the provision of vocational training and supportive mechanisms to address occupational injury rates of this population.
