The rule of a country by a single person with direct or indirect control of the economic, political, judicial and priestly functions. The ruler is generally regarded as of divine origin, and their acts invested with divine qualities. They often have taboos associated with their persons, to touch them may be treason. Their power is frequently related to successful crops and wars. At the heart of their power is military leadership.
Monarchy inculcates unthinking credulity and servility. It is an obstacle to objective public discussion. The system of social distinction and hierarchy depends on its existence. It keeps alive the absurdity of the hereditary principle.
A Queen who speaks at Strasbourg to the Council of Europe cannot speak for Australians, New Zealanders, Canadians, Jamaicans and countless other Commonwealth citizens.
Constitutional monarchies are some of the most enlightened and progressive governments in the world today, such as the Dutch, Belgian, English, Spanish and Danish monarchies. The Monarch is a symbol of the nation, the Head of State who stands above its political divisions. He or she is also seen as the ultimate guarantor of the nation and its liberties and the symbol of the continuity of the nation's history.