Mal Fletcher comments on the cultural and religious identity of the UK

Globalisation and Multiculturalism

Surely two of the biggest factors that will shape our approach to the Defender of the Faith idea, are globalisation and multiculturalism.

Attitudes to globalisation and multiculturalism both have a direct impact on the religious complexion of a country, through migration. Over the next two to three decades, changing immigration patterns may well impact on religious pluralism in ways we can't fully imagine right now.

Will Prince Charles and possibly his son and grandson, style themselves as 'Defender of Faith', in line with pluralistic attitudes? They may well do so.

Yet debates about multiculturalism have shifted significantly in just the last few years. Who knows where these debates will be by the time Prince Charles ascends the throne - let alone when Prince George eventually does?

Prince Charles, who has declared his intention of being known by this more general title, is also a keen student of history. He may re-evaluate his stance once the reality of his reign is actually before him - especially given how quickly our debate on multiculturalism has shifted ground.

In the space of just the last few years, we've seen a sea change in public and political attitudes to multiculturalism, as expressed through migration policies. These, of course, have a huge impact on the religious complexion of the nation.

We've gone from a situation where, as far as government was concerned, it was considered politically incorrect to advocate curbs on migration (and benefits to immigrants), to a point where it is now considered almost political suicide not to set limits.

Monarchy As Embodiment of Values

During the course of my lightning round of BBC interviews, I was asked whether, within the lifetime of young Prince George, the monarchy itself will be threatened.

I see no reason to come to that conclusion. For the same reason that 'Defender of the Faith' may remain in place as a royal title.

Every culture carries something of its historical 'cult'. I use that word in its proper anthropological sense, to mean the core religious worldview or system of belief that played a central role in the formation of a culture.

The British monarch is meant to represent an embodiment of British culture. And not only British culture, but perhaps the shared aspects of all the other cultures throughout the dominions under her - albeit ceremonial - covering.

Thus, in a sense, royalty is inextricably linked to religion and particularly Christianity, as it is this particular faith that has so hugely influenced the nation's character and values.