2.13 Ideology in Mauna Kea, Hawaii as the TMT construction site controversy.

The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) construction site selection has become the frustrations of many in Hawaii.

Who is involved in the controversy? The three major groups involved are the scientific community, the state of Hawaii, and the Native Hawaiians.

Who are some of the major speakers/writers within these groups?

• Paul Coleman, Astrophysicist, Institute for Astronomy, University of Hawaii-Manoa[1]
• Richard Ha, Hawaii Island Farmer and Businessman[1]
• Jon Osorio, Board President, KAHEA, a Hawaiian-Environmental Alliance[1]
• Kealoha Pisciotta, President, Mauna Kea Anaina Hou[1]

What kind of social/cultural/economic/political power does each group hold?

The scientists have been conducting studies and research for 7 years to plan in the construction of the thirty meter telescope[1]. The economist have determined that the 1.4 billion dollar project from external resources will increase Hawaii's independence from its 17% tourist revenue which fluctuates with global economics[1]. The social and cultural leaders have a large group of people that have held numerous peaceful protests by blocking the road for construction[2].It also seems that the investors have monetarily gained favor from the government to bend established laws set within the grounds of construction on Mauna Kea.

What does each group value? The social and cultural leaders value the sacred ground to the native people of Hawaii who oppose the desecration of the Mauna Kea mountain[2]. The scientist value the 10 fold increase in light collection and 12 fold increase in resolution above the largest telescope currently operating, Keck, which is also in the same site on Mauna Kea[1].

Is there a power differential? Hawaii's people have been struggling to regain power and retain its culture ever since the United States arrived. It seems as the the struggle is cause a major discourse now that such a significant addition is coming to the islands and desecration of it's sacred mountain[2].

Is there any acknowledged common ground between groups? The lack of planning has been acknowledged by every group. Each group believes that in order to either continue or end construction, there must be extensive planning in areas that have not been addressed. Most planning have legal implications.[1]

Is there any unacknowledged common ground between groups? The land is of great importance to both parties and it seems that the group for building the telescope is not heeding to the fact that the native Hawaiians were there years before any telescope was built and so should have a say in what happens to their land.

Do the various groups listen to each other?

The interactions between parties has been very peaceful, even when arrests have been made. All candid videos of these interactions have been executed with civility and mutual respect[2].

Citations 1 & 2