Critical thinking, connecting conversations and rigorous research about our economy and society

“The David Hume Institute continue to challenge my own perceptions of the economy and the future of Scotland in a way that has helped shaped decisions made in our business"

Shan Saba, Director, Brightwork Staffline

Upcoming Events

Upcoming
Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker Insights Briefing May 2026
May 26
Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker Insights Briefing May 2026

Hear the latest results of our quarterly survey data collected just after the Scottish Parliament election in this extended insights briefing.

Latest News

Latest News and Blogs
Sad news about former Director Jeremy Peat
Sad news about former Director Jeremy Peat

Former longstanding Director of the David Hume Institute, Jeremy Peat has died.

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Blog: Civil Litigation Hokey Cokey - Why This “Small Change” Could Carry Big Economic Risks for Scotland
Blog: Civil Litigation Hokey Cokey - Why This “Small Change” Could Carry Big Economic Risks for Scotland

Blog: Civil Litigation Hokey Cokey - Why This “Small Change” Could Carry Big Economic Risks for Scotland

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Press release: New Chair announced as Scotland faces “significant long-term challenges”
Press release: New Chair announced as Scotland faces “significant long-term challenges”

Professor Paul Atkinson announced as new Chair, at a time when Scotland faces growing economic and policy challenges.

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The Life, Times and Legacy of David Hume Project

Who was David Hume and does he still matter today? Find out more

In these complex times, where there is more passion than substance in most political discourse, the David Hume Institute continues to provide high quality independent research to raise the quality of debate. 

Andrew Milligan, Former Head of Global Strategy, Standard Life

Latest Research

Featured
Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker - August 2025
Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker - August 2025

Read insights from the August 2025 Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker, how is the economy affecting people’s lives in Scotland?

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Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker - May 2025
Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker - May 2025

Read insights from the May 2025 Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker, what do people think about the economy and how is affecting their life in Scotland?

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Front cover USET Feb 2025.jpg
Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker - February 2025

Our latest independent economic tracker reveals the economy is emerging as a key priority as 62% of Scots say conditions have worsened in past year.

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Catch up with past events

Our last three events are highlighted below. Catch up with more past events are here.

Featured
In conversation with Obama Speechwriter, Terry Szuplat
In conversation with Obama Speechwriter, Terry Szuplat

Hear Obama Speechwriter, Terry Szuplat discuss his career as a speechwriter. He shares stories from the White House and lessons he learnt along the way.

Big Economy Briefing - Part 2: Understanding Scotland’s Economy Perception vs Reality
Big Economy Briefing - Part 2: Understanding Scotland’s Economy Perception vs Reality

Part two of our big economy briefing looks at the difference between what people are saying and analysis of their bank accounts - perception vs reality, does it matter?

Big Economy Briefing - Part 1: Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker February 2026
Big Economy Briefing - Part 1: Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker February 2026

Catch up with insights from February 2026 Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker - what does it mean for Scotland?