Boris Johnson: Right Honourable Gentleman or Dishonourable Figure?
British politeness means that we must use the title 'Right Honourable' for individuals associated with the Privy Council, despite personal views on its appropriateness. Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson, commonly known as Boris Johnson, became a member of the Privy Council on 15 July 2016, officially entitling him to use the title 'Right Honourable'.
According to the conventions of public styles of address, Boris Johnson, as a member of the Privy Council, is indeed referred to as 'Right Honourable.' However, his actions in public and his reputation make the use of this title questionable. He is certainly not a role model of honor; in fact, one could argue that he is among the most dishonourable figures in the United Kingdom. Johnson's actions have brought the country into disrepute, and one would be wise to double-check any information he provides.
Mark Antony, in Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," Act 3, scene ii, describes noble men as 'honourable.' Yet, in the context of contemporary politics, Boris Johnson's actions fall far short of the conduct expected of an honourable man. He is more akin to a Dunning-Kruger buffoon, reliant on a superficial charm rather than genuine prowess or insight. His only apparent talent seems to be a capacity for remembering quotations in several languages, yet this does little to mitigate his lack of substance.
Writer Marina Hyde aptly described him as the answer to the question, 'What if you shaved the Honey Monster and put him in a suit for a court appearance?' This vivid description captures the essence of Johnson's public persona and the challenges he brings to the political arena.
Despite his official title, which is often abbreviated to RT Hon, for Cabinet ministers and privy councillors, Boris Johnson is considered a 'Right Honourable Member.' However, his actions and behavior do not align with the traditional perception of honor or gentlemanly conduct. He is a member of a venerable institution, but his conduct and reputation render the title somewhat hollow.
One can argue that the use of the title 'Right Honourable' is merely an antique convention, with no true connection to character. In these contexts, 'honourable' and 'governor' have no bearing on personal moral or ethical standards. Thus, the title should be seen more as a matter of protocol rather than an indicator of character or conduct.
Given his words and actions, trust in Boris Johnson to handle even mundane tasks such as taking out the bins responsibly seems misplaced. His behavior in public and in office has raised serious concerns about his capacity for responsibility and respect for the institutions he is a part of.
Concluding Thoughts
The title 'Right Honourable' is a formal and traditional one, often used in parliamentary settings to denote membership in the Privy Council. However, Boris Johnson's behavior and impact on society question whether he truly deserves or sustains the title. Whether one considers him a 'Right Honourable Gentleman' or a dishonourable figure, his legacy in British politics is a nuanced and complex one.