The death of Professor Alan Thompson at 92 marks the end of an era both in politics and academia on the British stage.
Typically, he threw himself into these diverse fields with gusto, and his contribution and influence was significant.
Elected Labour MP for Dunfermline Boroughs from 1959 to 1964, he drew attention immediately with his campaigning zeal, supported by his grasp of economics.
He lectured in economics at Edinburgh University, before becoming professor of the economics of government at Heriot-Watt University and a visiting professor at Stanford.
He had a passion for history and literature, was a lover of music and art, a prolific contributor to newspapers, magazines and the writer of pamphlets.
In 1964 shadow foreign secretary Patrick Gordon Walker offered him a junior ministerial job, but he had decided to return to the academic world.
In 1972 he stood against a plan to drive a motorway through the historic heart of Edinburgh.
In 1976 Prof Thompson was back in the public eye as a governor of the BBC and national chairman of BBC Scotland.
He relished his national role again, dealing with the complex challenges of broadcasting, and examining television’s present and future impact on society.
Respect and affection followed Prof Thompson, with his brilliant grasp of economics, erudition, engaging conversation, ability to take perspectives, enthusiasm and humility and support for students and young people.