Critical thinking is at the heart of tertiary teaching and confirms the university‘s role as “critic and conscience of society” (NZ Education Act, 1989). In my teaching I aim to contribute to the development of society by discussing issues of social justice and what it means to safeguard our democracy. To this end, I encourage students to think critically about their world, the knowledge they are gaining in the university and about themselves (Barnett, 1997). I also realise that the impact I have on my students will impact on society and future generations. Therefore, my teaching for learning takes place within a framework of responsibility for students, their needs and the needs of society.