An Honest Conversation About Colonialism and Australia's History with Nigel Biggar
Oct 29, 2024
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Nigel Biggar, Regius Professor Emeritus of Moral and Pastoral Theology at Oxford, engages in a thought-provoking dialogue about Australia's ties to the British monarchy. He argues for the benefits of a constitutional monarchy, fostering national unity while addressing Australia's colonial legacy. Biggar critiques current activism and the guilt surrounding national identity, emphasizing the need for balance in acknowledging past injustices while celebrating positive contributions. He advocates for strong democratic alliances rooted in historical connections to combat modern authoritarianism.
The constitutional monarchy in Australia may foster national stability and unity by providing a non-partisan head of state amidst rising political divisiveness.
Understanding colonialism requires a balanced perspective that acknowledges historical complexities, moving beyond a singular focus on guilt to foster a healthier national identity.
Deep dives
The Benefits of Constitutional Monarchy
A constitutional monarchy offers Australia a unique political structure that can unify its citizens beyond party politics. The discussion highlights that an elected head of state tends to become politically partisan, potentially dividing the nation along ideological lines. The monarchy serves as a non-partisan figure that can foster national cohesion, as it represents a shared political tradition derived from a long history of accountable governance. Thus, supporters argue that retaining the monarchy may provide stability and continuity within the Australian political landscape.
Contextualizing Colonial History
The historical narrative around colonialism often overlooks broader contexts in which cultural encounters occur. The conversation emphasizes that displacement and migration are universal phenomena that have shaped human history, not solely the result of British colonization. Consequently, it points out that Aboriginal Australians were not immune to external pressures, as similar displacements have occurred throughout history, often with devastating consequences. This perspective encourages a more balanced understanding of past events, recognizing both the good and the bad.
Reassessing Guilt and Historical Accountability
The tendency to focus heavily on the negative aspects of colonialism can lead to what is termed 'the canker of imaginary guilt,' potentially hindering effective governance. This notion posits that excessive guilt about historical actions, such as those committed during the British Empire, may weaken a nation's approach to both internal and external relations. There is a call for nations to recognize their historical complexities without being defined solely by their pasts, which can make them more susceptible to revolutionary ideas or political manipulation. A more nuanced historical perspective can foster a healthier national identity and a more robust policy approach.
Patriotism and Global Alliances
Patriotism is redefined as both a moral obligation and a natural sentiment that should not be equated with xenophobia or isolationism. A healthy form of patriotism encourages engagement with the international community, emphasizing the importance of alliances with nations that share similar values and interests. This cooperative spirit is essential for addressing global challenges and threats, especially in the face of authoritarian regimes. Thus, upholding national pride while fostering global connections can strengthen both national and international stability.
On the 23rd of October, I sat down in Sydney, Australia, with the esteemed ethicist and theologian Nigel Biggar—Regius Professor Emeritus of Moral and Pastoral Theology at the University of Oxford—to discuss King Charles' visit to Australia, whether Australia should cut ties with the British monarchy and become a republic, what it means to be a patriot, far-left activism, cancel culture, and whether we should be ashamed of our colonial past.