The English Constitution

""The English Constitution"" is a book written by Walter Bagehot, first published in 1867. It is a seminal work on the British system of government, exploring the unwritten constitution and the workings of the monarchy, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons. Bagehot examines the balance of power between these institutions, and the role of the Prime Minister and the Cabinet in the political system. He also discusses the role of the press and public opinion in shaping the government, and the importance of tradition and precedent in the British legal system. The book is a classic of political theory, and has been influential in shaping modern thinking about the British constitution. It remains a valuable resource for anyone interested in the workings of the British government and the history of political thought.The use of the House of Lords or, rather, of the Lords, in its dignified capacity--is very great. It does not attract so much reverence as the Queen, but it attracts very much. The office of an order of nobility is to impose on the common people--not necessarily to impose on them what is untrue, yet less what is hurtful; but still to impose on their quiescent imaginations what would not otherwise be there.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.