Define monarchy?

Answer 1

Modern monarchy is a democratic system of government set up with a partially elected parliament, but where the head of state (similar to a president) is a position that is passed down through a royal family. In most cases, the Monarch (King, Queen) has limited real power, but often has very real cultural influence and the respect of the citizens. They also are often used as advisors to the lead politician such as a prime minister.

And in extreme cases, few in such a country would go against a position that was clearly and publicy stated by the Monarch just for reasons of history and respect, and for this reason, this "power" is rarely exercised.

One example where it was exercised was Emperor Hirohito, against the wishes of his military and politicians, publicly urged the Japanese people to surrender. He had never spoken to them before, so this carried MUCH weight with a people who had been misled by an out of control military.

In this way, a Monarch is a "safety valve" that has the best interest of the people at heart, which is enhanced by the fact that they don't have to worry about getting elected!

In the case of the Queen of England, she has weekly meetings with the Prime Minister, who by all accounts appreciates and seriously considers her advice. She is also considered the Queen of Canada (since she is the head of state there as well, and also of dozens of other countries), and during Canada's political crisis last year, parliament was disolved, and the Queen's representative in Canada who takes her place while she is not there (Governer General) was sourced to come up with an emergency solution and had that authority under Canadian law.

In general, a Monarchy lends an element of continuity to a country that absolute republics do n not...Monarchies don't radically change policies, attitude and direction every 4 or 8 years so things tend to not be as hectic and in upheaval every election cycle. It gives some people a strong sense of country, patriotism, and the comfort of continuity and stability.

All of that aside, in modern times they also are a huge economic benefit to their countries, creating tourism, countless sources of reading material and history, and serve as priceless ambassadors of national identity both abroad and at home. In most countries, I think it is safe to say that a visit by the Queen of England would be considered a much more important event that a visit by the prime minister of the U.K. or some assigned ambassador. Her influence is hard to quantify but undeniable!

Answer 2

An absolute monarch kicks butt, no questions asked. If he wants to punch you in the nose, he can. If he wants your wife, she's his. If he doesn't like your haircut, he can have you executed. That's pretty absolute. A monarch who rules by popular acclaim needs to ask his people (a committee, really) if he can shoot someone or put someone in prison or whatever. If they say it's OK, every time, or if they don't care, then he is pretty close to being absolute. A consitutional monarch gets to sit on a very expensive chair (the throne) and look pretty. He gets to cut ribbons and throw parties with celebrity guests and stuff. He also gets to live in a beautiful home and has lots of help, including a chef, a butler, a chauffeur, and people like that. But a constitutional monarch is not allowed to change laws, enforce laws, sign an agreement with another country, or be a member of the Cabinet.

Answer 3

Monarchy is grand larceny on a national scale, it is when a person claims to be a king, queen, emperor or empress, and appropriates the wealth of a nation as his/her own.

Answer 4

This is a system of government in which executive power is vested in the person of a monarch, i.e. a king, queen or emperor etc.

Answer 5

A cesspit of despots who have finally have had their murderous habits curtailed. But who still manage to mesmerize the masses - the chattering classes.

Answer 6

Inbred family members taking turns at the throne.

Answer 7

Thatcher,Thatcher:Grocer's daughter.