Shattered Nation: how to save Britain from becoming a failed state

Past event: 23rd August 2023

What needs to be done to stop Britain becoming a failed state and is Scotland providing some answers?

Professor Danny Dorling, the Halford Mackinder Professor of Geography at University of Oxford joined us in Edinburgh to preview his new book “Shattered Nation: Inequality and the Geography of a Failing State".

This event explored how Britain lost its role as Europe’s leading economy, made itself one of the most unequal countries and whether policies such as the Scottish Child Payment, universal free school meals and the absence of university tuition fees in Scotland are preventing things getting worse.

In "Shattered Nation," Dorling discusses the need for progressive plans for change to help us tackle inequality, social and political polarisation as well as the economic challenges and repeated crises that have left so many struggling to afford decent housing and the basics of a good life.

The session was chaired by Assa Samaké-Roman, a journalist and newspaper columnist from France who lives in Edinburgh. Assa covers Scotland's politics, culture and society for the French-speaking media (Radio France Internationale, Radio-Télévision Suisse, Le Figaro, Politis). She is also the co-founder and editor of La Revue Écossaise, a new francophone magazine about Scotland's ideas, culture, history and politics.

This event was supported by News Direct.

Is Trust a Must?

Past Event: 25th June 2023

Hot on the heels of our new discussion paper “Is trust an undervalued ingredient for a thriving economy?”  on Thursday 25th June 2023, the David Hume Institute hosted an engaging webinar to explore the critical role of trust in our economy and society.

David Hume Institute Director, Susan Murray was joined in conversation from New York by Dr David M. Bersoff, from the Edelman Trust Institute.  David shared the global context on trust from the 2023 Annual Trust Barometer.  He explored questions such as, ‘What does the Barometer tell us about trust in the UK compared to the rest of the world?’, and ‘What do higher levels of trust mean for the economy and the labour market?’

Susan and David were also joined by Charlie Woods, the author of our recent DHI discussion paper, he reflected on the role of trust and the economy, and leading mediator John Sturrock, who works to build trust in negotiations. 

This thought-provoking discussion featured expert speakers and in-depth analysis. Trust is often overlooked as a key component of a thriving economy and society. Our speakers made a compelling case for its crucial role in a successful economy. 

This event was open to anyone interested in the future of our economy and society, from economists and policymakers to business leaders and students. Throughout the webinar attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and engage in lively debate with others who are interested about the role of trust in economic success.

From imagination to action: the future of Scotland's natural economy

Past Event: 5th September 2022

Almost a year on from COP26, organisations across Scotland are seeing enormous potential to harness innovation in diverse sectors. From agri-food to forestry and green finance, growing our natural economy and contributing in practical ways to tackling the twin climate change and biodiversity crises.

The David Hume Institute was joined by Professor Wayne Powell, CEO and Principal of SRUC, and Fran van Dijk, CEO of One Stone Advisors, Chair of Macaulay Development Trust and Deputy Chair of SEPA to explore what needs done to achieve rapid growth in the Scotland’s natural economy.

Wayne and Fran discussed the potential of applied R&D in areas like vertical farming and emissions capture to transform business, the steps Scotland must take and the challenges it will face to transition in the years ahead. 

If you missed this free online event, catch up with the recording above.