That’s a really sad way to look at it, there’s nothing wrong with connecting with the people you spend 8 hours a day with on a human level. I’ve made lasting friendships through the workplace. I have drinks a few times a year with my old team (most of whom have moved on) and it’s always a blast catching up, reminiscing and discussing the industry in a way I wouldn’t in the workplace. I go fishing a few times a year with an old colleague too and don’t really see how either of these things could be dressed up in a negative way.
Edit - I’ve also seen a few engineers you might describe as socially awkward/anxious come out of their shells in such environments. I’ve found introverts who wouldn’t usually contribute much to meetings contribute far more once they feel the team likes them personally.
Not sure where you're getting the idea Scotland is likely to go independent, the 'no' vote has been consistently 5% higher than 'yes' for a long time, except for during Partygate. Add in the fact that the Tories will likely not be in government, an aggressive Russia (SNP policy is to get rid of their nukes) and it's probably unlikely. Welsh independence is polling at 25%
Edit - I’ve also seen a few engineers you might describe as socially awkward/anxious come out of their shells in such environments. I’ve found introverts who wouldn’t usually contribute much to meetings contribute far more once they feel the team likes them personally.