BY DOMINIC WIGHTMAN
In a world that worships progress, equality, and democracy, the idea of a monarchy seems absurd. Why cling to an institution built on hereditary privilege, ancient traditions, and unearned power? A presidency is modern, democratic, and merit-based. Clearly, the last thing we need is a monarchy.
Stability and continuity? Ridiculous. Who wants a clear line of succession and predictable leadership? Far better to have presidents elected every few years, with power struggles, political infighting, and abrupt policy shifts. Chaos keeps things interesting. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
National unity? Meaningless. Why have a unifying figurehead who represents the whole nation, above petty politics? Better a president tied to a party, ensuring half the population feels alienated. Division builds character. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Historical and cultural identity? Sentimental nonsense. Why preserve centuries of tradition? Let’s erase the past and start afresh with each generation. A president with no connection to history is far more modern. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Apolitical leadership? Pointless. Who needs a neutral head of state? Better a president mired in partisan battles, making every decision about re-election. Politics should be a blood sport. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Long-term perspective? Short-sighted. Why think beyond the next election? Let’s focus on quick wins and ignore the future. A president’s term is plenty of time to make a mess. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Ceremonial and diplomatic role? Outdated. Why have a figurehead who commands respect on the global stage? Better a president who blends into the crowd. Who needs gravitas? The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Economic benefits? Overrated. Why boost tourism and national pride? Let’s ignore the revenue from royal events and heritage sites. Money isn’t everything. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Reduced corruption? Idealistic. Why separate ceremonial and political power? Better to concentrate it in one person. Absolute power is far more exciting. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Experience and training? Unnecessary. Why have a leader groomed from birth to understand governance? Better a president who learns on the job. Trial and error is the best teacher. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Symbol of tradition and order? Antiquated. Why seek stability in a chaotic world? Let’s embrace uncertainty. Tradition is a chain, after all. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Of course, we don’t need monarchy. Stability, unity, heritage, impartiality, foresight, diplomacy, revenue, ethics, competence, and tradition are relics of a bygone age.
Or perhaps monarchies endure because they offer something presidencies cannot: a bridge between past and present, a steady hand in turbulent times, and a reminder that some things are timeless.
But no, of course, we don’t need a monarchy. How foolish to think otherwise. The last thing we need is a monarchy.
Dominic Wightman, a Monarchist, is the Editor of Country Squire Magazine, works in finance, and is the author of five and a half books including Conservatism (2024).