Opinion
Comment and analysis on today’s biggest issues from Edinburgh's world-leading experts.
The views expressed in this section are those of the contributors, and do not necessarily represent those of the University.
The UK is 280 million years late for a fracking boom
Why lifting the ban on shale gas exploration is contradicted by geological knowledge, public opinion, and climate change action.
Eat your green bugs: why Europeans should eat more insects
The environmental gains are significant - swap beef for bugs and get the same protein and nutrients at a fraction of the impact. But do Westerners have the stomach for it?
How Russia’s upside down, looking-glass worldview is driving the Ukrainian war
Paranoia, rising authoritarianism and revitalised imperialism are combining with devastating effect in the Russian political realm. Putin's dangerous, alternative reality has led to atrocities in Ukraine - and it might not stop there.
COP26: Are we looking for success in the wrong places?
To find real progress at the summit look past world leaders shaking hands to what is happening beyond the negotiating rooms.
Good COP or bad COP?
Incremental progress was made in Glasgow, but change needs to happen faster. The climate does not wait for politics, and it remains headed for an ever deeper crisis.
Was COP26 a success?
The climate summit in Glasgow saw the planet take major steps towards addressing the climate crisis, but stumble attempting the giant leap needed to limit warming to 1.5C.
Would Scotland have a role in helping the world’s poor?
In the event of an independent Scotland, could the country afford to devote the recommended 0.7 per cent of its income to international development? It depends on the country's moral compass as much as its bottom line.
Roe v Wade overturned: data protection under threat?
Tools designed to help people track their health could be working against their civil liberties.
Governments are lagging behind digital entrepreneurs
Big tech firms are using sophisticated backroom tactics to disrupt markets and embed their platforms before regulators catch up. It is time for more transparency.
Why talking more about periods benefits everyone
A crippling taboo still hangs over periods. Women are constantly adjusting their lives in the face of a society that remains uncomfortable with menstruation, leaving many unsupported and isolated. This has to change.
How climate change threatens Europe’s food
Global warming poses a direct risk to European food production this century, says Dr Peter Alexander, one of the lead authors of a new UN report on climate change. If the abundant continental larder is to avoid becoming threadbare, action must be taken now.
Putin should fear a war crimes trial
Russia's invasion of Ukraine has reenergised respect for international law. Moves to punish the invaders may be slow, but there is new found enthusiasm for the systems that may see Vladimir Putin face justice.
A foundation for progressive youth justice policies
Progressive youth justice policies in Scotland, which have led to the lowest rates of youth conviction and imprisonment since 1972, could go further still, according to the findings of an influential study.
What are deepfakes and how are they impacting society?
Fake online video and audio content has become a powerful tool for spreading political misinformation and harming personal reputations.
Education is key to UK’s net-zero transition
Education is key to UK’s net-zero transition
Green skills and career pathways must be embedded into every part of education in the UK to help meet climate targets and ensure people thrive in a zero-carbon economy.