There are periods in history where relative stability predominates public affairs and there are other periods when there is huge disruption and change. In such periods of disruption political movements can rise or fall, sometimes dramatically. Societies and cultures change. Old ways of doing things no longer bring stability but instead bring stagnation. Those with vision who embrace change become the successful leaders.
It may be we are in such a period of dramatic disruption and change that poses new challenges. What is causing such change? It is not one overriding cause in my view, such as the industrial revolution or the aftermath of the first world war, but rather there are at least four major forces currently at work which I would argue are making us reappraise our future.
One of the most profound changes from Europe to North America and China as well as in Scotland is demographics. Never before in the history of the world has such dramatic changes been taking place with, in relative terms, shrinking working age populations. More and more older people are relying on fewer and fewer younger people to fund their pensions and lifestyles. (Africa has a different demographic challenge with a burgeoning young population seeking work and opportunities).