From Wikipedia about this Warrior gene:
“Due to the sensitive political nature of the findings, and the standard peer review process, the research has been heavily scrutinized. Several objections have been raised, such as the small sample size, and the extrapolation of non-Maori studies to the Maori population. In addition, ideological objections were raised, as well as concerns about announcing such findings in the early stages of research”.
> such as the small sample size, and the extrapolation of non-Maori studies to the Maori population.
I can certainly understand Maori being hesitant to accept this study. They are over-represented in our NZ gaols and are already stereotyped for being violent — in many cases unfairly. Labeling them with a “warrior gene” — whether it be true or not — would not be helpful to their efforts to change attitudes about violence in their community.
Somebody once said that “it is wrong to be right too early.” For the Maori community, these study findings may be “right too early”. Fundamental behavioral change takes time. Given 20 years these findings may be more timely.