New paper by Nick Barber examines the point of constitutional monarchy as a form of leadership

Nick Barber, Professor of Constitutional Law and Theory, has published a journal article ‘What’s The Point of Constitutional Monarchy?’ in the American Journal of Jurisprudence. In this paper, Barber examines the relevance and functions of constitutional monarchy as a leadership model, analysing the extent to which it fulfils five core leadership functions. 
 
The article finds that the best argument for monarchy lies in the monarch’s role as an exemplar—serving as a prototypical group member who embodies the values of state membership. By acting as a point of reference and reassurance, the monarch provides a shared source of identification for citizens, even among those who may otherwise disagree. The article argues that, as a figure capable of representing different conceptions of state identity, the monarch can resonate across various segments of society. 
 
However, the article highlights the challenges associated with monarchy’s hereditary selection process, suggesting that this method may not consistently produce individuals who can fully embody this unifying role. Consequently, the article views constitutional monarchy as a potentially time-limited, transitional mode of leadership.  

Barber contributes to the ongoing discourse on governance by exploring the long-term viability and moral implications of constitutional monarchy as a leadership model.