Brexit: Britain slips its moorings – The National

Brexit: Britain slips its moorings – The National

The island nation's departure from the EU is influenced by its sense of place. The UK's departure from the European Union is like a boat setting out to sea.. Because the UK is an island, and sometimes geography can help explain politics.. The limitations of any island are set by the sea but the sea also presents possibilities.. Britain is a trading nation, in which mercantile interests have often subordinated manufacturing.. Island nations have an interest in free exchange and open markets.. It is logical that free trade theory was developed in Britain.. The sea has also bred a peculiarly liberal political tradition in Britain.. Britain is one of the very few countries to make do without a written constitution.. If Britain is defined by its coast, Germany is defined by its woods.. To some in Britain, the EU resembles this species of enterprise - and that is what makes it so troubling.. Britain cherishes open markets and minimal government, while the EU erects "dirigiste" institutions.. Britain views man as fallible, the EU sees him as perfectible.. The country must now embrace the future alone, charting its own course on the open ocean..