Knowledge in sound

Brexit and the Brussels effect

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 16 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The Scottish Government's push for regulatory alignment with the European Union reflects its aspirations for potential re-entry into the EU. Nevertheless, burgeoning regulatory disparities at both UK and Scottish levels pose significant hurdles, notably within sectors like the environment.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/brexit-and-the-brussels-effect/

EU Scotland relations after Brexit: Where next?

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 09 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The UK and Scotland face ongoing challenges from their departure from the EU. In the face of polling suggesting that a notable portion of UK voters would back rejoining the EU, mainstream UK parties have sidestepped serious consideration of this option. In Scotland, however, the discourse surrounding Brexit and the potential merits of rejoining the EU or pursuing independence within the EU framework is taken more seriously, as evidenced by the political stance of the Scottish government and the SNP.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/eu-scotland-relations-after-brexit-where-next/

Attitudes and narratives on immigration: Is Scotland really different?

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 02 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Scotland's approach to immigration starkly contrasts with the rest of the UK, with political parties advocating for increased migration to address population decline and labour shortages despite lacking devolved powers over immigration. Unlike the UK, immigration isn’t a contentious issue in Scottish media or politics, and surveys reveal a more welcoming attitude towards migrants among the Scottish public.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/attitudes-and-narratives-on-immigration-is-scotland-really-different/

Citations and further reading:

Kyambi, S. and Kay, R. 2023. “Attitudes to Immigration: A view from Scotland.” Migration Policy Scotland. https://migrationpolicyscotland.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Attitudes_Scotland_Sept23.pdf

Maneri, Marcello. 2023. “A comparative analysis of migration narratives in traditional and social media”. BRIDGES Working Papers 11. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8192076

Smellie, Saskia. 2023a. “Migration narratives in media and social media. The case of the United Kingdom.” BRIDGES Working Papers 10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7937160

Smellie, Saskia. 2023b. “The impact of narratives on policy-making at the national level. The case of United Kingdom”. BRIDGES Working Papers 25. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10259906

Smellie, Saskia, and Christina Boswell. 2024a. “Comparative analysis of migration narratives in political debate and policymaking: Cross-national report’.” BRIDGES Working Papers 26. Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10590198

Smellie, Saskia and Christina Boswell. 2024b. “Policy brief on the impact of narratives on policymaking at the national level”. BRIDGES Policy Briefs 2. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10591072

A heated debate rises over high pressure superconductivity

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Professor Graeme Ackland highlights the debate around claims of room-temperature superconductivity breakthroughs.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/a-heated-debate-rises-over-high-pressure-superconductivity/

What might Scotland learn from the EU on food system transformation?

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Alan Matthews explores the EU's recent reform of the Common Agricultural Policy, aligning it with the goals of the European Green Deal. While emphasising greater environmental ambition and performance-based approaches, Matthews notes pushback against certain legislative initiatives, offering valuable insights for Scotland's agricultural policy debate and transformation process, particularly concerning stakeholder engagement and managing conflicting priorities.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/what-might-scotland-learn-from-the-eu-on-food-system-transformation/

Agriculture and food: From production subsidies to balancing support for farmers’ livelihoods with promoting the green transition and food security

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Professor Maggie Gill discusses the complexities of transitioning agricultural support in Scotland, emphasising the need for a just transition and outlining key challenges and questions in defining and promoting high-quality food production.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/agriculture-and-food-from-production-subsidies-to-balancing-support-for-farmers-livelihoods-with-promoting-the-green-transition-and-food-security/

Regaining lost ground in the Scottish research landscape

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Frank Moeschler MBE writes about the crucial role of EU funding, notably from Horizon, in Scottish research, highlighting the £900m received in structural funds and the impending loss of such support. Frank advocates for intensified efforts to bolster UK's association with Horizon Europe and Copernicus, stressing the need for coordinated engagement to maximise benefits from future EU research programmes like FP10.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/regaining-lost-ground-in-the-scottish-research-landscape/

Children and technology: is it about time?

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Professor Andrew Manches, challenges the conventional debate on children's screen time, emphasising the need to understand how digital interfaces shape interactions. From the transformative impact of touchscreens to emerging technologies like augmented reality, ethical concerns about data privacy and the evolving meaning of childhood concepts come to the forefront. Manches advocates for a proactive approach, encouraging adults to be mindful role models, share concerns with children, and envision future designs that enrich their lives.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/children-and-technology-is-it-about-time/

Wearable technology could improve future health treatments

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Researchers at the EXPPECT Centre for Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis at the University of Edinburgh, led by Philippa Saunders and Andrew Horne, are advocating for the integration of wearable technology to revolutionize the treatment of endometriosis. The "hidden" condition affects thousands in Scotland, causing chronic pain and significantly impacting the quality of life. Current treatment options are limited, with surgeries having high recurrence rates and drugs often leading to undesirable side effects. The researchers propose using a combination of wearable, clinical-grade biosensors and a mobile app to collect objective data on patients' physical activity, sleep, and daily behaviors.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/wearable-technology-could-improve-future-health-treatments/

Britain and Europe after Ukraine

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the UK, once cautious about EU security collaboration, has undergone a seismic shift in its role. Boris Johnson's government swiftly assumed a leadership position in supporting Ukraine, becoming a major contributor of military aid and re-engaging with the EU on security and defense. This newfound cooperation reflects not only the evolving geopolitical landscape but also underscores the UK's recognition as an indispensable player in European security and a key thought-leader in responding to the crisis.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/britain-and-europe-after-ukraine/

As Europe sets the pace on the environment, the UK’s four nations struggle to keep up

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The UK's four nations, struggling to find common ground in the post-EU landscape. Baroness Young of Old Scone reflects on the slow but effective consensus-building processes within the EU that provided long-term agreements, fostering consistency and certainty for various stakeholders.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/as-europe-sets-the-pace-on-the-environment-the-uks-four-nations-struggle-to-keep-up/

Rethinking creative expression in society

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:26:00 +0000

Scotland is on the cliff-edge of a cultural recession, argues Karen Anderson, chair of Wasps (Workshop & Artists Studio Provisions Scotland)

The bigger picture: Filmmaking education in Scotland

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In the wake of Scotland's cinematic surge, fueled by an 80% spike in production spend, the success story is not without its complexities. As the reel of prosperity unfurls, the challenges of securing skilled crews and sustaining Scotland's emerging cultural cinema come sharply into focus, revealing an intricate dance between education and industry demands.

Taking care: The power of inclusive and sustainable architecture

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Simple elements like well-positioned windows can significantly enhance health and happiness. Jude Barber writes about the crucial role of preserving existing structures, valuing cultural identity, and adopting mindful community-led approaches to space creation.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/taking-care-the-power-of-inclusive-and-sustainable-architecture/

Design as a catalyst for hope and change

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Leonie Bell declares the V&A Dundee a beacon for cultural growth in Scotland and a global voice for design and culture, urging the world to seize the current crises as the greatest creative opportunity in human history for a sustainable and fair revolution.

Why we must defend and support our libraries

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Sean McNamara, Head of the Chartered Institute for Library and Information Professionals in Scotland, passionately advocates for the defence and support of libraries, stressing their integral role in upholding democracy, equality, and intellectual freedom. He highlights the adverse impact of austerity on public and school libraries, calling for robust funding and visionary plans in upcoming elections to secure their essential societal contributions and counteract the escalating challenges faced by these critical institutions.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/why-we-must-defend-and-support-our-libraries/

Khartoum to Aberdeen: Writing, identity and home in Scotland

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 08:25:00 +0000

Leila Aboulela, renowned author and essayist, reflects on her life-altering move from Sudan to Scotland, deeming it the defining chapter of her existence. Settling in Aberdeen, she turned to writing as a response to the unfamiliarity of her surroundings, using her stories to bridge cultural gaps and carve a space for marginalized voices in English literature.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/khartoum-to-aberdeen-writing-identity-and-home-in-scotland

Artistic evolution in the AI era

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In the age of artificial intelligence, Scotland's Royal Conservatoire remains a global leader in the performing arts, asserting the irreplaceable value of human creativity. With a robust commitment to inclusivity and authenticity, the institution navigates the evolving technological landscape, emphasizing the enduring importance of artists in shaping a future where artistic expression thrives alongside AI advancements.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/artistic-evolution-in-the-ai-era

The commons and the future of creativity

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

As artificial intelligence intersects with copyright, Creative Commons engages in global consultations to navigate concerns and maximise public benefits, acknowledging the transformative impact of generative AI on creativity while addressing the varying perspectives and challenges faced by artists.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/the-commons-and-the-future-of-creativity/

European foreign and security policy: The view from Scotland

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Juliet Kaarbo and John Edward of the Scottish Council on Global Affairs explore Scotland's role in European foreign and security policy within the UK. Despite constitutional questions, Scotland's interests in EU-UK relations span trade, investment, innovation, and specific security concerns such as energy, climate security, and High North security. Complicating matters with interconnection between foreign policy, economic interests, and the ongoing political question of Scottish independence and its impact on EU-UK relations.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/european-foreign-and-security-policy-the-view-from-scotland/

Sovereigntists versus liberal internationalists

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In a shifting political landscape, the traditional divide between Left and Right in Europe has given way to a new dichotomy: liberals versus anti-liberals, the latter often labelled "sovereigntists." This divide centres on issues of national sovereignty, with anti-liberals advocating for hard borders, resistance to external regulations, and a focus on preserving cultural identity. As sovereigntists gain traction, liberals face the challenge of reconciling their commitment to open borders, European integration, and cultural tolerance with the rising sentiment favouring nationalist agendas.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/sovereigntists-vs-liberal-internationalists/

We need to talk early and often about the environment

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

There's been a further decline in environmental standards post-Brexit, attributed to political factors globally and diverging practices within the UK. The influence of right-wing governments and slow adaptation in the hydrocarbon sector exacerbates the situation. The article underscores the need for early and continuous dialogue, emphasizing international collaboration and strategic foresight to address the environmental repercussions of political changes.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/we-need-to-talk-early-and-often-about-the-environment/

Protecting the environment: A consensual commitment or focus for confrontation in the UK?

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Professor James Curran scrutinizes the post-Brexit environmental landscape in the UK, highlighting a notable contrast between the Scottish Government's commitment to maintain or exceed European environmental standards and the UK Government's less specific assurances. As the UK departs from the European Environment Agency, concerns arise about the lack of reliable evaluation regarding environmental performance compared to neighboring countries. The divergence is evident in various EU environmental initiatives, posing challenges for the UK and Scotland to keep pace.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/protecting-the-environment-a-consensual-commitment-or-focus-for-confrontation-in-the-uk/

The Scottish Government case for an independent Scotland in the EU

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

The Scottish Government's long-awaited policy paper, "An Independent Scotland in the EU," was released, offering a comprehensive case for EU membership. While the paper successfully highlights the advantages of EU affiliation in areas such as the single market, travel, employment, and climate cooperation, it carefully navigates some contentious issues, including currency alignment, fisheries policy, and the potential border between an independent Scotland and the rest of the UK. However, notable gaps in addressing the fiscal deficit and avoiding discussions on an EU-Scotland association agreement leave room for skepticism, raising questions about the paper's ability to rejuvenate the independence debate, which currently struggles for momentum amid internal process disputes and a focus on the UK government's reluctance to allow another referendum.

Article written by Kirsty Hughes FRSE.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/the-scottish-government-case-for-an-independent-scotland-in-the-eu/

The post-Brexit educational horizon

Royal Society of Edinburgh — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In the wake of the UK government's withdrawal from the Erasmus+ scheme post-Brexit, the launch of the Turing Scheme has faced challenges, including bureaucratic hurdles and funding uncertainties. While some argue that it is too early to fully assess Turing's success, concerns linger about its capacity to replace the longstanding institutional cooperation and benefits of Erasmus+. The question arises whether a future UK government might consider rejoining Erasmus+, presenting potential challenges related to bilateral relationships, cost considerations, and the evolving focus of Erasmus+ beyond higher education exchanges.

Article written by Professor Paul James Cardwell.

https://rse.org.uk/resources/resource/blog/the-post-brexit-educational-horizon/