
James Cameron relocates to New Zealand over America’s rejection of science
James Cameron relocates to New Zealand over America’s rejection of science
- James Cameron relocated to New Zealand to ensure the sanity of his family amidst U.S. polarization.
- His decision was influenced by the pandemic, which he believes demonstrated a lack of trust in science in the U.S.
- Cameron's move emphasizes the contrasting public health responses between New Zealand and the United States.
Story
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many public figures have expressed their opinions on the handling of the crisis, including filmmaker James Cameron. He decided to leave the United States and move permanently to New Zealand, a decision motivated by his concerns over America's increasingly polarized environment and rejection of scientific guidance, especially concerning vaccinations and public health measures. Cameron spoke candidly in a recent interview about his frustrations with the national response to the pandemic, which he believes revealed a significant division within the American populace regarding trust in science. Cameron has had an affinity for New Zealand since 1994, where he purchased a farm in 2011 with his wife, Suzy Amis. During the pandemic, he found himself in a difficult situation while trying to work on his film, 'Avatar.' After returning from a holiday in the U.S., he faced challenges in relocating his production team back to New Zealand due to the global health crisis. This experience reinforced his views on the necessity of moving to a place that values public health and scientific evidence, which he perceives as lacking in the United States. Cameron showcased the differences between the two nations regarding their response to COVID-19. He praised New Zealand for effectively eliminating the virus and for having a high vaccination rate among its citizens, making it a more conducive environment for him and his family. His criticism of the U.S. included observations about a troubling decline in vaccination rates and a society that he believes is deeply fragmented, with individuals often at odds with each other. Cameron’s strong feelings about these issues led him to question whether the U.S. is still a suitable place for individuals who value mental health and scientific consensus. His move has been a significant personal and professional transformation. Cameron had at one point sought American citizenship but withdrew his application after George W. Bush's election in 2004. Now, he emphasizes that his move is not merely about the beautiful surroundings of New Zealand but primarily about seeking a sensible community that prioritizes public health and unity over discord. Given his stature as an influential filmmaker, Cameron's departure and stated reasons highlight the ongoing discussions about the implications of societal beliefs in science and public health amidst a global pandemic.