Funding the Future Why have we got a monarchy?
Feb 24, 2026
The conversation challenges why a hereditary monarchy exists in a modern democracy. It explores how royal symbolism and inherited wealth undermine equality and distort politics. It argues for an elected, accountable head of state, a written constitution, and reforms like proportional representation and limits on corporate party funding.
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Monarchy Violates Democratic Equality
- Monarchy contradicts core democratic equality by making political authority hereditary.
- Richard Murphy argues nobody should be born to rule, inherit political power, or be forced into public life by birthright.
Royalty Harms Families And Reinforces Privilege
- Monarchy imposes invasive public scrutiny and unrealistic expectations on royal families.
- Murphy says turning families into institutions damages individuals and reinforces class hierarchy and privilege across society.
Public Services Still Bear Monarchy's Language
- State institutions still use monarchic language that implies public assets belong to the Crown.
- Murphy highlights examples like H.M. Revenue and Customs and 'detained at His Majesty's pleasure' to show symbolic reinforcement of hierarchy.