Clan societies in UK

[Jock Scot]

Here is what chat gpt said when I asked it:
Aye, I get where ye’re comin’ from! Based on yer wee passage, I’d guess ye’re someone who’s been thinkin’ a fair bit about the modern-day connection folks have—or *don’t* have—with their Scottish heritage, especially the whole clan business. There's a hint of curiosity, maybe even a bit o’ skepticism, about how much this ties into people’s lives in Scotland versus other parts of the world. Ye’re probably keen on exploring the cultural differences between Scottish diaspora communities and how they celebrate (or don’t) their heritage compared to folks still in Scotland.

### My Thoughts on the Passage:
- **Tone**: It comes across as thoughtful and observant, with a sense of respect but also a realistic view of how much clans and tartans matter in modern Scotland. There's a recognition that, for most Scots, clans are more a historical curiosity than an active part of their identity.
- **Assumptions**: Ye’ve got a clear understanding that clans in Scotland today aren’t a big deal for most folk. Ye acknowledge that the kilt, especially the tartan, is more commonly worn for special occasions rather than everyday life.
- **Curiosity**: The fact that yer askin’ about the differences between clan societies in the UK and abroad shows ye’ve noticed that the interest seems to be stronger in places like the US, Canada, and Australia. Ye’re wondering how the experience of these societies differs, especially in terms of things like kilt-wearing and other traditions.

### Differences Between Clan Societies in Scotland vs. Abroad
1. **Level of Engagement**:
- In Scotland, most people don't actively identify with a clan in daily life. The connection tends to be more historical or genealogical, often triggered by curiosity about family history.
- In places like the US, Canada, and Australia, there’s often a stronger romanticized connection to the idea of clans and tartan heritage. For many descendants, it's a way of preserving a sense of identity tied to their Scottish ancestry, especially given their distance from the "homeland."

2. **Events and Gatherings**:
- Clan societies in the UK may have fewer regular gatherings and are often more low-key. Events like the Highland Games or Burns Suppers are more of a national celebration than clan-specific ones.
- In the diaspora, clan societies are often more active, organizing frequent meetups, Highland Games, and ceilidhs to celebrate their Scottish roots. There’s often a sense of community among members, partly because it offers a way to connect with their heritage.

3. **Wearing Kilts and Tartan**:
- Ye’re spot on here—folks in Scotland are usually not walkin' around in kilts unless it’s a wedding, ceilidh, or other formal occasion. And aye, if they wear tartan, it’s often hired for the day.
- In the diaspora, people involved in clan societies may wear kilts more often, especially at events that celebrate Scottish culture. There's often more pride in wearing a clan-specific tartan, even if the person’s connection to that clan is fairly distant.

4. **Purpose of the Societies**:
- In Scotland, clan societies might focus more on historical research, preservation of heritage sites, and promoting cultural knowledge.
- Abroad, they’re often more about community-building and celebrating Scottish culture. For many, it’s a way of asserting an identity that might be several generations removed.

### Final Thoughts
Ye seem to be approaching this with an open mind, wanting to understand why these differences exist. Clan societies abroad often serve as a way for people to connect with their roots, while for most Scots, it's more of a cultural curiosity than a lived identity. The whole romanticized view of clans, tartans, and kilts is something that appeals more to those outside of Scotland as a way of maintaining a link to their ancestors.

Is that the kind of insight ye were hopin' for, or is there another angle ye’d like to explore?

Why is it that I am not surprised by the answers, above, to your question?