Why Democracy Outshines Constitutional Monarchy: Evidence from the UK
Why is democracy a better form of government compared to constitutional monarchy? This question is as pertinent today as it was centuries ago. While some may argue that a constitutional monarchy offers a stable and unchangeable structure, the reality is starkly different. In this discussion, we will delve into the discrepancies between the two systems, using the United Kingdom's current political landscape to illustrate why democracy stands out as a superior governance model.
Introduction to the Current State of UK Politics
Britons are often told that they get a say in how their country is run. However, the reality is far from ideal. The last general election resulted in the rule of a government with an absolute majority, devoid of the need to consider public opinion. Fast forward to the next election, the current government is poised to maintain its power with a similar majority. This translates to five years of governance that disregards the voices and desires of the electorate. It is de facto governance by elected representatives who are not required to heed the public until the next election cycle.
Think of current UK Prime Ministers Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss as elected monarchs, and Sir Keir Starmer as the next in line for a figurehead role. The public has no say in the policies, decisions, or actions taken by the government. This system, while labeled a democracy, is in essence a facade. We get to pick our representatives every so often, but their obligation to represent us is often negligible.
Is Constitutional Monarchy Better?
It is sometimes argued that constitutional monarchies are a step forward from absolute monarchies, providing a 'figurehead' unlike the 'despotism' once common in Europe. However, the notion that constitutional monarchies offer a better system is often misinformed. Constitutional monarchies, like that of the United Kingdom, retain a powerful monarch who has the authority to appoint and dismiss ministers, make treaties, and pass legislation. This inherent power transforms the 'figurehead' role into a significant player in the governmental system, undermining the very essence of a democratic process.
The Case for Democracy
Democracy, on the other hand, emphasizes the active participation of citizens in the decision-making process. It ensures that policies reflect the values and needs of the people. In a democratic system, the elected representatives are accountable to the populace, and their actions are subject to public scrutiny. This accountability is a cornerstone of democracy and a clear advantage over a system entrenched in tradition and historical power dynamics.
Examples from the UK
The UK's historical transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy does not necessarily signify progress. Many constitutional monarchies, while removing the outright tyranny of absolute rule, often retain significant power for the monarch, making the system less democratic. In the UK, the role of the monarch is often cited as a positive aspect of the system, but in practice, the monarch's influence is significant and can impact governance without direct public input. This is evident in the appointment of prime ministers and other government officials who are ultimately accountable to the monarch, not the public.
In contrast, pure democracies like those seen in the United States, or even more direct forms such as ancient Greek democracies, provide a more robust and transparent system of governance. Each citizen's vote carries weight, and elected officials are held accountable at every turn. The lack of a powerful monarch or other inherited position of authority makes the system more flexible and responsive to the will of the people.
Conclusion
While constitutional monarchies may offer a veneer of stability and tradition, they fall short when it comes to truly representing the will of the people. Democracy, with its emphasis on real public participation and accountability, is a more robust and effective system of governance. The UK's current political realities highlight the inadequacies of a constitutional monarchy, demonstrating the superiority of democracy in genuinely reflecting and serving the interests of its citizens.