In the lecture Prof Devine outlined the "evidential reality that this small nation had a disproportionate impact on the worlds of philosophy, medicine, education and missionary work".

In an entertaining question-and-answer session, chaired by Deputy Presiding Officer Alasdair Morgan, the professor challenged an audience member to 'fisty cuffs', contemplated the impact of only allowing 0.2% of the population the right to vote, and advocated the establishment of 'poker clubs' across Scotland.