It’s a curious thing, isn’t it? You open up the newsfeed, ostensibly to catch up on what’s happening closer to home, and before you know it, you’re engrossed in the minutiae of the latest Samsung versus Apple phone war. I’ll admit, even I, Gregor Matheson, found myself poring over comparisons between the S26 Ultra and the iPhone 16 Pro Max. It’s a testament to the pervasive nature of global tech giants that they can command such attention, even when our own local issues might be crying out for it.
And it’s not just phones. We’re presented with an article about the latest iteration of Samsung Galaxy Buds, a decision for many whether to upgrade. Again, a global product, a global debate, played out in headlines that land on our screens here in Scotland. It’s easy to see why. These are shiny, desirable things that promise to improve our daily lives, and the tech industry does a masterful job of keeping us hooked on the next big thing.
The Shine of Distant Stars
Then, my scrolling takes me further afield. There’s news of Greatland defining a “globally significant” 70Mt tungsten resource at O’Callaghans. Tungsten! A vital metal for industry, a rare commodity. It’s undeniably important, a reminder of the vast geological treasures that lie beneath the Earth’s surface. But the O’Callaghans site isn’t in Perthshire or the Highlands, it’s in Western Australia. It’s another example of how our news cycles are dominated by developments happening elsewhere, often in places where resource extraction is a primary focus of national identity and economy.
And the international flavour continues. I read about Women in Law Japan marking its 10th anniversary. A commendable initiative, no doubt, working to address gender gaps in a respected profession. It’s inspiring to see such efforts being made globally. But it also prompts the question: how are our own Scottish legal circles faring? Are we adequately supporting women in law here in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Aberdeen? Are we creating the necessary platforms for connection and mentorship within our own borders?
Our Own Courts, Our Own Councils
It’s not that I believe we should be oblivious to the world beyond our shores. Far from it. Understanding global trends, economic shifts, and societal progress is crucial. However, I can’t help but feel a pang of concern when I see our collective attention, even my own, so easily diverted from the matters that directly impact our lives here. We have our own councils grappling with budgets, our own policies being debated in Holyrood, our own challenges and triumphs that deserve our focused engagement.
Consider the recent sporting news. The Final Four is set, with UConn stunning Duke. A thrilling basketball game, I’m sure, with a dramatic game winning shot. It’s exciting to follow the pinnacle of athletic achievement. But I find myself wondering what’s happening in Scottish amateur sports. Are we showcasing the dedication and talent brewing in our local clubs? Are we celebrating the young athletes right here in our communities who are putting in the hard yards? It feels like we’re often more invested in the finished product on a global stage than the foundational work happening on our doorstep.
This isn’t an argument for insularity. It’s a plea for perspective. It’s about recognising that while the latest smartphone innovation or a significant mineral find in a far-flung land might be interesting, our own immediate environment, our own communities, and our own national development should occupy a more prominent place in our consciousness. We have a wealth of resources, both human and natural, right here in Scotland. We have our own burgeoning tech scene, our own legal professionals striving for progress, and our own sporting heroes waiting to be recognised. Let’s ensure we’re dedicating as much of our attention, our debate, and our celebration to them as we are to the distant, albeit fascinating, echoes of the wider world.
