The David Hume Institute

The David Hume Institute is an independent research institute based in Scotland. We were formed in 1985 to increase understanding of the economy and related public policy.

Our staff, trustees and partners work together to encourage diversity of thought.  We apply the rigorous approach which has long defined DHI to encourage action which addresses the contemporary issues of our time. Central to our work are the people of Scotland. We engage, listen and collaborate with people from different backgrounds, genders, and ages, to encourage action towards a more prosperous, sustainable, inclusive and fair Scotland.

Economy – We take a broad view and explore a wide range of issues and topics which influence Scotland’s economy.

Society – We recognise that economic questions are interconnected with broader societal issues and work to demonstrate this.

Policy – We seek to inform policy-making by government and institutions, increasing understanding of how people live in relation to each other and the economy.

Values

We believe in the power of diversity of thought and in the value of bringing people together in an atmosphere of respectful debate.  We listen to voices from across society and are unafraid to challenge established thinking or power structures. We are:

  • Curious
  • Inclusive
  • Rigorous 
  • Open
  • Independent

Latest reports

Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker August 2024

This report from UK think tank The David Hume Institute looks at the economic outlook for Scots. Our independent quarterly tracker has revealed that one in three (36%) people living in Scotland consider the cost of living as one of their top concerns, down 12 percentage points year on this time last year. According to...

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The great risk transfer: employment and financial wellbeing

This report from UK think tank The David Hulme Institute examines the impact of the great risk transfer on individuals and society through the changing relationship between employer and employees. This latest research which investigates the Great Risk Transfer and the changed relationship between employment and financial wellbeing, published in partnership with the Institute and...

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Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker May 2024

This report from UK think tank The David Hume Institute looks at the economic outlook for Scots. As Scotland gears up for the General Election, the latest survey from the Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker series reveals that healthcare and the cost of living are at the forefront of Scottish voters' minds as they get ready...

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Why aren’t more people talking about the Scottish Child Payment?

This briefing from UK think tank the David Hume Institute looks at the Scottish Child Payment as a policy innovation. The Scottish Child Payment is a bold policy intervention with cross-party backing targeting child poverty and its long-term consequences. This blog aims to stimulate discussion about this Scottish policy innovation and calls for investment and...

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Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker – August 2023

This report from UK think tank the David Hume Institute looks at the economic outlook for Scots. The most recent data from the David Hume Institute and Diffley Partnership’s regular economy tracker reveals a mixed picture of public opinion on the economy. Research shows extreme cost-saving behaviours in how Scots shop, eat and live are...

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Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker – May 2023

This report from UK think tank the David Hume Institute looks at the economic outlook for Scots. The most recent data from the David Hume Institute and Diffley Partnership’s regular economy tracker reveals a mixed picture of public opinion on the economy. The economic outlook from Scots remains bleak with 62% thinking that general economic...

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Is trust an undervalued ingredient of a thriving economy?

This report from UK think tank the David Hume Institute looks at the role that trust can play in strengthening the economy. Labour market disputes, concerns about public contracts and declining trust in government and institutions have risen up the news agenda in recent times.  All of these things impact on our economy but the...

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Scotland’s Land Information System – what is it and why does it matter?

This report from UK think tank the David Hume Institute looks at what Scotland's Land Information System is and why it matters. A new report, written by land reform expert Andy Wightman, commissioned jointly by the David Hume Institute and Built Environment Forum Scotland, says the lack of a fully functioning land and building information...

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