Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Should Scotland seek independence?
Position1 of 3›

Scotland should become independent from the UK

This position holds that Scotland should become independent from the United Kingdom. It argues that the SNP commands strong support, that Scotland holds different political values and goals from the rest of the UK, and that the pandemic exposed the divide between them.

Supporting arguments · 3

  1. The SNP has strong support in Scotland
    The Scottish National Party (SNP) has risen to the top of Scottish politics. Once a fringe party, they now control the Scottish government and hold the most Scottish seats in Westminster. They have made their mandate clear, and their strength signals support for independence.
  2. Scotland has different values and goals
    The national ethos of Scotland has long been separated from the leadership in Westminster. In the midst of Brexit and the ascendancy of the Scottish National Party (SNP), the trajectories of the two nations do not align.
  3. COVID-19 has demonstrated the divide between Scotland and the rest of the UK
    First Minister Nicola Sturgeon's competent handling of the pandemic thus far has bolstered her case for independence. Not only has she driven Scotland into a safer context upon ending the lockdown, but she has also provided a stark contrast to Boris Johnson's handling of the disease.