Scotonomics

In this compelling interview, William sits down with author Russell Jones to delve into his latest work, "The Tyranny of Nostalgia: Half a Century of British Economic Decline." Through the lens of Jones's rigorous analysis, the interview explores how nostalgic sentiments have influenced and, at times, impeded Britain's economic progress over the last fifty years. With Scotland's future at the forefront of the discussion, William and Jones discuss the implications of this economic decline on Scotland's push for independence, examining the potential (Russell less so than William) for a more prosperous future untethered from the weight of British nostalgia. This dialogue is essential for anyone interested in understanding the economic underpinnings of the independence debate and the role of nostalgia in shaping national policy and identity.

Taken at Scotonomics Festival of Economics in Dundee in 2023, this is a lively discussion on the chances and challenges of Scotland delivering a well-being economy. Panel Amanda Burgauer, Common Weal, Gary Gillespie, Scottish Government and Frances Reynar, WeAll Alliance.

Reclaiming Adam Smith with Professor Graeme Roy.A thought-provoking episode that seeks to dispel common misconceptions about Adam Smith, often heralded as the father of modern economics. This discussion aims to challenge the prevalent right-wing interpretations of Smith's ideas, arguing that his work has been oversimplified and misappropriated. Professor Roy explores the depth and nuance of Smith's economic and moral philosophy, highlighting aspects of his thought that resonate with a broader, more inclusive political and economic spectrum. "Reclaiming Adam Smith" offers a fresh perspective on his theories, advocating for a more accurate understanding of his contributions beyond the narrow confines of right-wing ideology.

Cannibal Capitalism: How our System is Devouring Democracy, Care, and the Planet – and What We Can Do About It. With Nancy Fraser. Capital is currently cannibalizing every sphere of life-guzzling wealth from nature and racialized populations, sucking up our ability to care for each other, and gutting the practice of politics. In this tightly argued and urgent volume, leading Marxist feminist theorist Nancy Fraser charts the voracious appetite of capital, tracking it from crisis point to crisis point, from ecological devastation to the collapse of democracy, from racial violence to the devaluing of care work. These crisis points all come to a head in Covid-19, which Fraser argues can help us envision the resistance we need to end the feeding frenzy.She argues that we need a wide-ranging socialist movement that can recognise capital's rapaciousness and starve it to death.This was a fantastic conversation. Nancy's book is available here: https://www.versobooks.com/en-gb/products/2685-cannibal-capitalism

We were joined by Jamie Cook, a passionate advocate for Universal Basic Income (UBI). Jamie's work centres around the idea that a guaranteed, unconditional income could revolutionise our social and economic landscape. With the belief that UBI offers a solution to many modern challenges, from poverty reduction to addressing job loss due to automation, Jamie's insights promise to be both thought-provoking and enlightening. This promises to be a very interesting "battle of ideas" as we delve into the potential impacts of UBI on society. Jamie brings a wealth of knowledge and an unwavering commitment to exploring how this radical concept could pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

In this episode, we are joined by Economics Professor Stephen Kinsella from the University of Limerick to discuss the Irish economy. Ireland has often held up as the shining light, the great example of a successful small nation that gained independence from the UK and ended up doing so much better than it would have done staying as part of Britain. So is it all sunshine and lollypops in Ireland, and does it provide a cut-and-paste template for an independent Scotland?

How do individuals, societies and economies cope with the pain and the cost of mental health, poverty and inequality? In this episode, we speak to Tom Pollard, Policy, Research & campaigns consultant and NHS Mental Health Social Worker.

With Angus B MacNeil MP