It provides an additional check. Much like a monarch, a noble's interests are tied to the welfare of the country itself. Without the country, they're just a toff with some money and an overinflated sense of self-importance.

This is the most convincing argument for the house of lords/monarchy that I've ever heard. Going to be thinking about this for a while, thanks.

> a noble's interests are tied to the welfare of the country itself.

I'd argue their interest is tied to the welfare of the country for themselves, not the country itself or the general public.

The usual elitist slop.

Every single citizen has a skin in the game of their country. They live there.