Uploaded August 2025 | Updated September 2026, 12 hours ago
In the 17th century, Britain abolished its monarchy due to civil war and political unrest. It was subsequently restored and eventually became subject to constitutional constraints. Today, a majority in democratic Britain views it as a symbolic institution that “reigns, but does not rule,” a unifying force of national identity and tradition. Yet a growing number, especially in younger generations, view it as an outdated and expensive institution that is antithetical to democracy. What is the future of the monarchy, and why does Britain keep it? How open is the dialogue surrounding it?
Featured:
John Battle, former Labour Party Cabinet Minister, United Kingdom
Laura Beers, history professor, American University, Washington, DC
Darragh Gannon, associate director, Global Irish Studies, Georgetown University
Elan Closs Stephens, electoral commissioner, Wales
Michael Scott (moderator), senior dean, Blackfriars Hall, Oxford
Sanford J. Ungar (moderator), director, Free Speech Project, Georgetown University
Recorded: August 20, 2025
In the 17th century, Britain abolished its monarchy due to civil war and political unrest. It was subsequently restored and eventually became subject to constitutional constraints. Today, a majority in democratic Britain views it as a symbolic institution that “reigns, but does not rule,” a unifying force of national identity and tradition. Yet a growing number, especially in younger generations, view it as an outdated and expensive institution that is antithetical to democracy. What is the future of the monarchy, and why does Britain keep it? How open is the dialogue surrounding it?
Featured:
John Battle, former Labour Party Cabinet Minister, United Kingdom
Laura Beers, history professor, American University, Washington, DC
Darragh Gannon, associate director, Global Irish Studies, Georgetown University
Elan Closs Stephens, electoral commissioner, Wales
Michael Scott (moderator), senior dean, Blackfriars Hall, Oxford
Sanford J. Ungar (moderator), director, Free Speech Project, Georgetown University
Recorded: August 20, 2025
