Letter from Kenneth Roy, the editor of the much admired Scottish Review – the free online journal of news analysis and opinion
It is almost time to pass the SR torch – not to be confused with the glorious stick – to a successor. In early January 1995, I launched the Scottish Review. On 7 January 2015, exactly 20 years on, I will relinquish the editorship, hang my last prejudice out to dry, and give up journalism. Blinking in the pale sunshine of a winter morning, I will be free to concentrate on that other creation of mine, the Young Programme, on both sides of the border; and there's always that book to write, isn't there?
Anyway, a vacancy arises for a modestly remunerated part-time appointment. The new editor should have a working knowledge of Scotland, a rough ability with words, a desk and chair of some kind, and a respect for the magazine's sceptical traditions. Expressions of interest are invited. If you have a notion to be only the second editor of the Scottish Review in human history, let's be hearing from you no later than Friday 29 August. The address is admin@scottishreview.net
For a little flavour of the Scottish Review, pop over to the website here and have a read of some of this weeks offer including Walter Humes 'We are still creating idols in the cave' which explores Francis Bacon's 'Novum Organum' ('New Instrument'), published first in 1620, as casting light on the preoccupations of the 21st century.
"'Idols of the cave' are misinterpretations which arise within the mind of each individual: these come either from 'his own unique and singular nature; or his education and association with others; or the books he reads and the several authorities of those whom he cultivates and admires'. Anticipating modern psychology, Bacon drew attention to the dark inner world of human consciousness, its capacity for self-interest and delusion, its limited ability to understand and respect the perspectives of others.
Many aspects of modern culture encourage self-obsession, a preoccupation with the shadows cast in our personal 'cave'. Ours is often referred to as the 'me generation', symbolised in excessive attention to style, fashion and body image. The narcissism of many 'celebrities' is not only tolerated, but applauded as an indication of their 'authentic' pursuit of personal identity. The fact that they often leave a trail of destructive relationships in their wake is conveniently passed over."
To read the article in full head to Scottish Review here
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