One of the complaints that is often raised against monarchy, even constitutional ones where the monarch isn't all that important, is that it is a position, right at the top of society, which is allocated entirely on the basis of birth. The solution that is typically suggested to rectify this is to bring in a presidential system, but this both (1) politicises the position and (2) lacks the pomp and ceremony that is the main reason we keep the monarchy around in Britain.

There is, however, an alternative to a presidential system which not only preserves the pomp and tourist pounds, but offers a chance to increase it. I am talking, of course, of having far more than just one Royal Family (though we can't have more than one monarch - perhaps the family with the largest number of registered vassals get's the job?).

It would be open to everyone to found their own dynasty, whether they are a two-bit Lord of the Manor in a Victorian terrace (ahem, period townhouse), or a long established family with several castles in which to hold their court. Pageantry would be encouraged, particularly events (jousting? Abundant employment for members of the Society for Creative Anachronism) which can draw in much revenue from selling the livestream rights in other countries - I imagine the United States would be a large market for such entertainment. Perhaps we could later establish some new Royal Families in the New World if it takes off; there is no need for government sponsorship, after all.
-- Selky, May 05 2017

It should be pointed out that occasionally it happens that a royal has no offspring. This leaves the position of head honcho open for access by other lineages. The House of Windsor wasn't always the house of English royalty, and given enough centuries may fall by the wayside like other houses (the Tudors, for example).
-- Vernon, May 05 2017


// a long established family with several castles in which to hold their court. Pageantry would be encouraged, particularly events (jousting? Abundant employment for members of the Society for Creative Anachronism) which can draw in much revenue from selling the livestream rights in other countries //

Well that will certainly have got M'Lud Buchanan all hot and sweaty. His clan (pack ? brood ?) just adore that sort of thing, particularly if it's gratuitously violent, humiliating, xenophobic, replete with medaeval brutality, and a possible money spinner - particularly the latter.

"AVAILABLE NOW, Greek Prince, one careful lady owner, high mileage but never raced or rallied, FSH, no time-wasters".
-- 8th of 7, May 05 2017


This is exactly why I am running for the elected office of Benevolent Planetary Sovereign.

My platform is;
-I don't want the job.
-I'm in way over my head.
-I need all the help I can get.
-...but I'm not a self-serving asshole.

A vote for me is a vote for you...
-- 2 fries shy of a happy meal, May 05 2017


"You are Donald Trump, and we claim our five billion pesos ..."
-- 8th of 7, May 06 2017


I was going for more of an Alexander riding the unicorn Bucephalus type feel, but Trump can muck out the stall for minimum wage... as soon as he finishes dismantling the wall by hand.
-- 2 fries shy of a happy meal, May 06 2017



random, halfbakery