After my trip to the United Kingdom, I have a new-found appreciation for Article I, Section 9, Clause 8

July 7th, 2012

No title of nobility shall be granted by the United States: and no person holding any office of profit or trust under them, shall, without the consent of the Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or foreign state.

I had this sinking feeling when I passed by Buckingham Palace, or the other signs celebrating the Queen’s Jubilee. I understand Queen Elizabeth II is widely liked, and really does no harm. Though, the idea of a certain family that assumes power and huge amounts of wealth simply because they are in a certain bloodline troubles. I mean, it’s not like anyone in America inherited great amounts of wealth and power based on his or her parents. Right?