Northern Neighbours

A topical, comparative study of the economic, social and political development of Norway and Scotland since 1800 Northern Neighbours explores the reasons for, and outcomes of, the social, political and economic divergence between Scotland and Norway over a period encompassing 500 years, in an engaging and comprehensive way. This accessible comparative study takes a closer look at the links between suffrage, property ownership and the process of democratisation and distribution of political power, land use and reform, the relative movement of populations, the process of industrialization, and rights of access. It offers a thorough analysis of the history of religion, education and finance in both countries, and explores the exploitation of their rich natural resources, and the resulting contrast in their fortunes. The authors also pose timely questions about the future of both countries; whether the economic and social disparities between the two can be addressed, and if the Nordic model could provide a basis for a realistic and effective development strategy for Scotland, were it to become an independent nation. Contributors Arne Bugge Amundsen, University of Oslo Eberhard ‘Paddy’ Bort, University of Edinburgh Nik. Brandal, University of Oslo Øivind Bratberg, University of Oslo Ottar Brox, Norwegian Institute for Regional Research John Bryden, Norwegian Agricultural Economics Research Institute in Oslo and Emeritus at the University of Aberdeen Bronwen Cohen, University of Edinburgh Keith Hart, London School of Economics Agnar Hegrenes, Norwegian Agricultural Economics Research Institute Mary Hilson, University College London Andrew G. Newby, University of Helsinki Erik Opsahl, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim Tore T. Petersen, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim Karen Refsgaard, University of Copenhagen and the University of Life Sciences at Ås, Norway Lesley Riddoch, journalist, author and broadcaster Wenche Rønning, University of Nordland Michael Rosie, University of Edinburgh