Seven medieval monks or friars dressed in red robes, one woman in black and white, standing and sitting on a stone balcony overlooking a rural landscape with castles or towers in the distance. St. Catherine of Siena addresses bishops and cardinals.

Catholicism is a democratic tradition.

Long before modern liberalism, Catholic thinkers laid the groundwork for constitutional self-government, including...

  • Participation

  • Representation

  • Rule of Law

  • Separation of Powers

  • Checks and Balances

  • Civil and Religious Liberties

  • Truth in Communication

  • Virtuous Leadership

  • The Common Good

Discover the Catholic Case for Democracy
The United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C., with its iconic dome and sculpture, under a clear blue sky. A symbol of democracy and constitutional self-governance to the world.