When you think of democracy, what comes to mind? For many, it conjures images of freedom, equality, and a government by the people. However, in Jeb Smith’s thought-provoking book, Missing Monarchy: Correcting Misconceptions About The Middle Ages, Medieval Kingship, Democracy, And Liberty, readers are invited to reexamine their understanding of democracy and monarchy. Smith presents a compelling argument that the medieval kingdoms of the past may have offered a freer, more libertarian society than our modern democratic systems.
The Myths of Medieval Oppression
One of the most pervasive myths about the Middle Ages is that it was a time of rampant oppression under tyrannical monarchs. However, Smith challenges this narrative by presenting evidence that medieval societies were, in many respects, more libertarian than our current democracies. In Missing Monarchy, he uncovers the surprising freedoms enjoyed by people during the medieval period.
Medieval societies were not the oppressive regimes they are often portrayed to be. Instead, they operated under a system where customs and laws were chosen by the people, offering a level of autonomy that is rarely seen today. Additionally, the medieval period was marked by numerous holidays and ample leisure time, contrasting sharply with the work-centric lifestyle of the modern era. People worked less, had more free time, and enjoyed a quality of life that, according to Smith, may surpass that of many individuals in contemporary society.
Democracy and the Illusion of Freedom
Smith’s critique of democracy is both bold and thought-provoking. He argues that modern democratic systems often devolve into oligarchies, where a small group of elites—including politicians, military leaders, and capitalists—wield disproportionate power. This concentration of power leads to laws and policies that primarily serve the interests of the elite, rather than the general populace.
In Missing Monarchy, Smith explores how this oligarchic tendency in democracies results in increased taxation, government authoritarianism, and a disconnection from family and leisure. He suggests that the democratic ideal of “government by the people” often fails in practice, leading instead to a society where individuals are pressured to become hardworking, taxpaying citizens at the expense of their personal happiness and freedom.
The Libertarian Nature of Feudalism
A particularly intriguing aspect of Smith’s book is his reexamination of feudalism. Far from being a system of unyielding oppression, feudalism, as Smith describes it, was a decentralized form of governance that allowed for significant personal freedoms. Lords and vassals had mutual obligations, and the relationship was often more collaborative than coercive. People had the power to choose their leaders and were actively involved in the governance of their communities.
Smith highlights that, unlike modern states where the government has a monopoly on violence and lawmaking, medieval societies had a more dispersed power structure. This dispersion of power often resulted in more personal liberties and less governmental overreach. The medieval model, according to Smith, provided a framework where individuals could live freer and happier lives.
A New Perspective on Liberty
Smith’s book doesn’t merely critique modern democracy; it also provides a new lens through which to view liberty and governance. By understanding the historical context and comparing it with contemporary systems, readers are encouraged to rethink what true freedom looks like. Smith posits that many of the freedoms we take for granted in modern democracies may be illusory, masked by the increasing control and surveillance of the state.
In Missing Monarchy, Smith calls for a reevaluation of how power is structured and exercised in our societies. He suggests that learning from the past—specifically, the decentralized, libertarian aspects of medieval governance—can provide valuable insights into creating more just and free societies today.
Conclusion
Jeb Smith’s Missing Monarchy: Correcting Misconceptions About The Middle Ages, Medieval Kingship, Democracy, And Liberty is a bold and enlightening exploration of historical governance systems and their relevance to contemporary political thought. By challenging long-held assumptions about the Middle Ages and democracy, Smith provides readers with a fresh perspective on liberty and governance. His arguments encourage a deeper understanding of the complexities of power and the potential for creating a society that truly values and protects individual freedom. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a political science student, or simply curious about alternative forms of governance, Missing Monarchy offers a compelling and thought-provoking read.