Born in the summer of 2000, ICS is devoted to the intellectual, social, economic and cultural advancement of Scotland. ICS, which has charitable status, is independent, socially inclusive, and non-party-political. Its starting point is the need for a new enlightenment in Scotland accessible to all. It fulfils this vision through an annual programme of activities, including:

Young Scotland Programme
Every year, ICS organises week-long residential courses which aim to "stretch the minds, broaden the horizons and stir the consciences" of people in the early stages of their professional lives. Around 400 delegates from a wide range of organisations have successfully completed this challenging programme since it was launched in November 2002.

Scottish Academy of Merit
An annual awards scheme recognising significant individual achievement in modern Scotland. Each year, 12 distinguished men and women, Scottish-born or living in Scotland, are admitted as Fellows of ICS's Scottish Academy of Merit and known as Scots of the Year. On the day of the awards, each of the award-winners presents a paper.

ICS Young Scot of the Year
An award for outstanding work in the community by a young person between the ages of 18 and 30. It is made in memory of Arnold Kemp, the former editor of The Herald.

The Scottish Review
Scotland's magazine of good writing, established in 1995, combines penetrating commentary and stylish entertainment. As newspapers, driven by commercial pressures, devote more and more space to vacuous lifestyle and personality features, the Scottish Review appeals to that discriminating minority of readers who long for a more reflective and intelligent alternative.
"It infuriates, it irritates, it grates, it stimulates, it makes you think. And every so often it makes you do something. Not many publications do all of that. So it's worth subscribing." – Lord Robertson of Port Ellen (George Robertson)
"A great magazine." – Tom Morton, Radio Scotland
"Admirable." – Allan Massie writing in Prospect
"A magazine devoted to all things Scottish and upholding the best traditions of the written word." – The Herald
Now the Scottish Review is going online www.scottishreview.net