In this fortnightly feature, Coree Brown rounds up the latest blogs from academics and commentators.

 

Writing at Political Insight, John Curtice discusses both the pragmatic and emotional elements of the independence debate, noting that Scots may face a conflict between their identity and their material interests.

 

Writing at the LSE Politics and Policy blog, Professor James Mitchell joins experts in weighing in on the recent cabinet reshuffle. Professor Mitchell discusses the appointment of Alistair Carmichael as Secretary of State for Scotland, a role that Mr Carmichael has previously proposed to absolish.

 

At Democratic Audit, Professor Paul Cairney examines the push towards local democracy in response to the prospect of constitutional change. He notes challenges which proposals fail to address, including an unclear role for the Scottish Parliament and the role for groups which currently operate at the Scottish level, including organisations like Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations.