Key Concepts

Argument Explanation
Distinction between the "Dignified" and "Efficient" parts of the Constitution Bagehot argued that the English Constitution consisted of two distinct parts: the "Dignified" part, which includes the Monarchy and the House of Lords, and the "Efficient" part, which is the House of Commons. The Dignified part is meant to inspire reverence and respect, while the Efficient part actually governs the country.
The role of the Monarchy Bagehot believed that the Monarchy played a crucial role in the English Constitution, serving as a symbol of national unity and continuity. However, he argued that the Monarch's powers should be limited and that the real power should reside in the House of Commons.
The importance of the Cabinet Bagehot highlighted the importance of the Cabinet in the English Constitutional system. He argued that the Cabinet, consisting of the Prime Minister and other ministers, should be the real center of power and decision-making, rather than the Monarchy or the House of Lords.
The need for a strong executive Bagehot recognized the need for a strong executive branch in the government, and he believed that the Prime Minister and the Cabinet should have the power to take decisive action when necessary, subject to the approval of the House of Commons.
The role of public opinion Bagehot emphasized the importance of public opinion in the English Constitutional system. He argued that the government should be responsive to public opinion and that the House of Commons should represent the views of the electorate.

Quotes

Chapter Quote
The Cabinet "The Cabinet is a combining committee, – a hyphen which joins, a buckle which fastens, the legislative part of the State to the executive part."
The Monarchy "The monarch's right to be consulted, the right to encourage, the right to warn, is indisputable."
House of Lords "The cure for admiring the House of Lords is to go and look at it."
The House of Commons "An assembly which, in fact, governs a country without Executive power in itself, is, in practice, the ruler of the nation."
On Public Opinion "The power of the newspaper press is a gigantic power; it tunes the voice, it points the finger, it inspires the action, in the vast drama of civilization."
On Political Parties "In order that a country should have a party, it is necessary that it should have an opinion."

Contents

Chapter Summary
1. Introduction to the English Constitution In this chapter, Bagehot sets the stage for his analysis by discussing the importance and uniqueness of the English constitution, contrasting it with other systems, particularly those in continental Europe.
2. The Monarchy Bagehot explores the ceremonial and symbolic role of the monarchy in England. He explains how it serves as a unifying force and helps maintain political stability through its non-partisan character.
3. The House of Lords This chapter discusses the composition, functions, and limitations of the House of Lords. Bagehot highlights its role as a revising chamber and a check on the decisions made by the House of Commons.
4. The House of Commons Bagehot analyzes the House of Commons, focusing on its critical role in the legislative process, political representation, and its relationship with the electorate.
5. The Cabinet In this chapter, Bagehot delves into the workings of the Cabinet, describing its pivotal role in decision-making and coordination of government policy. He looks at its composition and how it links the executive and legislative branches.
6. The Prime Minister Bagehot examines the role and powers of the Prime Minister, emphasizing their central position in the government as the head of the Cabinet and the key figure in policy direction and leadership.
7. The Opposition This chapter discusses the role of the political opposition within the English constitutional framework. Bagehot explains how a healthy opposition is vital for a functioning democracy as it provides checks and balances on the government.
8. The Values and Dangers of Parliamentary Government Bagehot evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of parliamentary government, underlining its capacity for responsive and responsible governance while also pointing out potential risks such as inefficiency and instability.
9. The Committee System Here, Bagehot discusses the committee system within the English Parliament, its purposes, and its effectiveness in scrutinizing legislation and policy.
10. The Role of Public Opinion In this final chapter, Bagehot reflects on the influence of public opinion on the government. He elaborates on how public sentiment impacts political decisions and the overall functioning of the constitutional system.