Thursday, 11 September 2014

People who want to be in charge

Don’t follow leaders, said Dylan. Many people want to be in charge, and I’m aware that the English do not have a monopoly on this trait. But we do tend to do it in - how shall I say - a more polished and superior way than others.

And in Scotland this week, as Suzanne Moore puts it in probably the best piece I’ve read on this tense topic, ‘Those in charge are all campaigning simply to be in charge.’ If you read nothing else about Scotland, read this one.

 

 

11 Sep 2014 08:00:35 | Citizenship and democracy

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A word about the neighbours Like many English people I’ve experienced occasional nationalistic abuse from Scottish people in the past; but given the often nasty historical abuse perpetrated by the English establishment all over the place I’m more than ready to overlook that. With a few hours to go to the true historical moment of the referendum, my thoughts are with those Scots who are riven with indecision. I hope they manage to reach a decision that they remain comfortable with. I also hope they exercise their right to vote. Yesterday I was told of a predicted turnout of 81 per cent, though one would hope it will be higher: on such a momentous occasion, how could nearly one in five citizens not be bothered? Among the numerous unresolved issues around the campaign, I’m still pondering these: Concerning all these economists and financiers and their predictions of economic disaster… can someone remind me of their economic forecasting competence and explain the basis for their integrity, impartiality and appreciation of social justice? Is it not perfectly reasonable for at least half a nation to vote on the principle of social justice rather than on the values peddled by an arrogant self-serving elite from another country? (That's a no-brainer if ever I heard one). I hope it will be rather more than half a nation. Will a Yes vote lead to the reinvention of a genuine politics of the left? And how long might that take? I reckon 5-10 years with a Yes vote. With a No vote, forget it, you’ll need to find a small independent country to emigrate to. Good luck to them.

Kevin Harris

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