As a long time fan of Sam Harris, and feeling like I know his stances and thoughts on most things, I was surprised to hear his positive opinions on the Monarchy.

Having experienced the continuous hysteria and media coverage first hand (I'm British) for a week now, I would have thought Sam would regard it all as a form of state cultism. I don't see how it could require any careful nuance to identify what is going on over here as anything but medieval and silly. It has become a state imposed religion. The media would have you think the entire nation is in mourning but its not true. I'm saddened he has completely missed what has been going on. Protesters have been arrested for asking who elected the king and charged for "disturbing the peace". Elected politicians in all 4 states, and even across the Commonwealth, having to re-swear allegiance and duty to "his majesty". And its almost like everyone has suddenly forgotten about the controversy of Prince Andrew. Furthermore, on the day of the Queen's funeral - schools and shops will be closed, hospital appointments and surgeries cancelled, even food banks will be closed for the day. All done as "a mark of respect". The country has gone into a mental and literal shut down.

Sam said that he respects how the monarchy, although being an exception among democracies, brings stability and represents the people's interests in putting a check to power. He even quotes Andrew Sullivan who wrote an honorary tribute when reflecting on the queen's reign and why we need it still.

It feels as close as is possible in a democracy to how North Korea or China operates. Its exactly what many Trump critics including Harris fear if a democracy-election-denying mob were in charge of the country. There are no debates or meaningful discussions in the press or media, no negative words uttered. No honesty. I really hope Sam will pick up on our country's current state and re-visit his thoughts. What do others think?