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25 November 2009

At the Faculty of Actuaries' biennial lecture of in Edinburgh on 23 November, Sir Michael Atiyah, one of the world's foremost mathematicians, called on Scotland's leaders and people to remember the lessons of the Scottish Enlightenment.

Sir Michael said: "The Scottish Enlightenment wasn't a one-off event, its cultural, social and intellectual legacy still resonates today and there are still vital lessons Scottish society can learn. I would argue that the most important lesson is the sharing of knowledge. One of the key characteristics of the Scottish Enlightenment was how scientist debated with economist, how artist worked with physician and how philosopher and lawyer shared the common goal of the pursuit of knowledge. For Scotland to succeed in the 21st century, we need this spirit once again."

His comments were echoed by Ronnie Bowie, President of the Faculty of Actuaries: "If you look at the global economic crisis, I would suggest that one of the reasons why this happened is that people didn't talk to each other, didn't share information and knowledge. We need to get out of our bunkers and start communicating and working together."

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Enquiries: Tel. Michael Scanlan on 07798 804 871, or email michael.scanlan@actuaries.org.uk

Notes to Editors

  1. Actuaries provide commercial, financial and prudential advice on the management of a business's assets and liabilities, especially where long term management and planning are critical to the success of any business's venture. They also advise individuals, and advise on social and public interest issues.
  2. Members of the Profession have a statutory role in the supervision of pension funds and life insurance companies. They also have a statutory role to provide actuarial opinions for managing agents at Lloyds.
  3. The Profession is governed jointly by the Faculty of Actuaries in Edinburgh and the Institute of Actuaries in London. A rigorous examination system is supported by a programme of continuing professional development and a professional code of conduct supports high standards reflecting the significant role of the Profession in society.
  4. The Profession is available to provide expert comment to the media on a range of actuarial- related issues, including enterprise risk management, finance and investment, general insurance, health and care, life assurance, mortality, and pensions.