Positive debate over Scotland’s future is healthy wake-up call

TOO much emphasis has been placed on a vitriolic minority in the referendum debate, 
with little attention paid to the social benefits of Scotland’s democratic revival (“Divided we fall”, Leader, 15 June).

The referendum has led to passionate political debates and different views among friends and families. We should welcome this as a sign of a healthy democracy.

A whole generation of young people are newly enfranchised. New campaign organisations have formed for business, the arts, women’s representation and many other issues. Hundreds of local campaigns are tackling political apathy with neighbours knocking doors, holding meetings, listening and answering questions. On both sides of the debate thousands of people are writing, thinking and speaking about how Scotland can be a better country. The referendum made this happen.

In the last week, campaigners united in fundraising for Motor Neurone Disease after Gordon Aikman’s (director with Better Together) moving appeal. While the referendum divides opinion, such compassion and humanity are of 
higher rank. I’m confident that mindset will continue beyond the vote.

Rather than “demobilise” – as this paper suggests – those engaged should keep this democratic revival going. I think we will. Long after 2014 and the referendum generation, Scotland will be better for it.

Michael Gray, Glasgow