He surprised economists when he said the way forward was community ownership similar to that which secured Eigg from feudal ownership. Mr McIntosh also used the example of the Stornoway Trust, on Lewis, as well as land reform being developed by the Scottish Parliament. He also said that spirituality was needed in reshaping land ownership. It is fair to say that these eminent economists had never heard of Eigg or Stornoway - but they have now. Mr McIntosh had been called in by economists and theologians in the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Russian Orthodox Church to advise on land reform in the former communist state.
Spirituality can help bring community into economics.
Russia is in economic chaos but there is a deep resurgence of spirituality. There are orthodox churches springing up all over the place. The Russians were excited that a developed country like Scotland could recognise that community is central to land ownership. Mr McIntosh has been invited to return to Russia for further meetings. Lighting up the Island A remote island in the Inner Hebrides has finally entered the 21st century after winning a battle for its own electricity supply.