Historian Paul Moon has cancelled his upcoming lecture at New Zealand’s National Library after a staff member relayed a request from the director to remove historian John Seeley’s quote describing the British Empire as being “acquired in a fit of absence of mind,” citing fears it could appear supportive of colonial conquest.
“Everything can be read as political,” they added.
The lecture, set for February, focused on British policies leading to the Treaty of Waitangi.
Professor Moon, known for his extensive work on the Treaty, explained the quote was intended to illustrate the haphazard nature of British colonisation.“ There was absolutely nothing controversial… It’s been used by many historians,” he said, describing the request as “extraordinarily ill-informed.”
Earlier, the library also objected to his use of the Māori term whakapapa (genealogy) without offering a reason, despite its widespread encouragement in New Zealand’s academic and cultural discussions.
Rejecting what he saw as undue censorship, Moon cancelled his appearance, stating, “I had no option… the people won’t get the full story because it’s what the library wants.” He criticised the library for attempting to control content, arguing it undermines intellectual freedom.
National Library Director Alison McIntyre expressed disappointment at Moon’s decision. However, Moon, who has delivered lectures for decades, including on Māori marae, said this was the first time he had been asked to alter his material.
Centrist Ltd. 2024