Independence of the Scottish Mind Elite Narratives, Public Spaces and the Making of a Modern Nation

'This is an extraordinarily important and ambitious book for a historic moment in British history. Fearmongering aside, few are addressing the deeper issues. Gerry Hassan is the leading exception. He has been arguing regularly that much deeper and more interesting forces are at work. His analysis of them in this book will stand as an exemplary exploration for all those interested in their own national questions and the nature of 'self-determination' in the era of 'globalisation', wherever they may be.'

Anthony Barnett, founder Director, Charter 88 and co-founder, Open Democracy

'Gerry Hassan is an original thinker, myth-slayer and scholar with a healthy disregard for disciplinary boundaries who brings each of these facets to this highly original and challenging book. The book covers a subject that is familiar but in unfamiliar and challenging ways. It will make uncomfortable reading for some and challenge assumptions of many more. It is refreshing and necessary.'

Prof. James Mitchell, Department of Politics, University of Edinburgh, UK

'This is one of the subtlest and most deeply-researched accounts of the Scottish public intellectual in the modern era. Gerry Hassan's reputation speaks for itself to anyone even tangentially interested in the field, and he has established himself as a leading commentator on Scottish affairs over a number of years.'

Prof. Michael Gardiner, Department of English and Comparative Literary Studies,University of Warwick, UK