Letters | How the UK’s once great empire continues to shape the world
- Readers discuss the legacy of the British Empire with regard to the current world order, and why it is worrying that a former US president has held onto classified papers
As it closes a chapter of history of which there may have been mixed perceptions, Britain must see that its strengths continue to lie in its values, moral convictions and its sense of duty and obligation.
It might no longer boast the assets and capabilities that defined its hard power in the past, but what can prevail is its soft power, values and principles as it sets agendas, wins influence and unites nations behind common causes.
The second aspect is intangible, involving social and political values and principles Britain created, upheld and disseminated.
Britain not only defeated the forces of autocracy, but had an excellent track record of building ventures and tools, and improving economic mobility in civilisations. Whether it was the Industrial Revolution or the frontiers of science and social innovation, Britain led the drive for creativity and discovery.
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Queen Elizabeth makes final journey to Windsor Castle after state funeral