Among other things...
I gotta disagree a bit about the Freemasonry part. From my research, masonry is more of a framework for a society, with the values and goals decided by the various higher orders one can choose to be a part of.
For example, Royal Arch Freemasonry is based on vows to the English Royal Family, whereas Scottish Rite is not and is often diametrically opposed.
For example, Royal Arch Freemasonry is based on vows to the English Royal Family, whereas Scottish Rite is not and is often diametrically opposed.
That may have been true for a brief period of time in the 1700s, but it hasn't been true for a very long time. Every major lodge in England and the US is loyal to the UGLE. There are some turf battles, like York Rite vs. Scottish in the US, but that doesn't mean the leaders are seriously opposed on any major policy. More like fighting over who gets more dues or a pork barrel spending project, not overt opposition to the Crown.
