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Revolution |
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The term “revolution” commonly refers to the violent overthrow of a political regime or government, carried out by part or all of the citizenry. It is always a most serious matter, destroying the peace, however imperfect, of a political community, and creating an atmosphere of mistrust and hatred that may not be overcome for generations. Hence the decision to begin or to join such armed resistance is subject to the strictest moral guidelines, essentially the same as those of Catholic just war doctrine. Revolution is legitimate only on the following terms: there has been a serious and prolonged violation of justice on the part of the authorities; all possible means of correcting the situation short of violence have been attempted and failed; the revolt will not itself be the cause of even greater misery and disorder; there are reasonable chances of success; and no better solution can be foreseen by prudent persons (cf. CCC 2243 with 2309). If even one of these conditions is not met, it is gravely wrong to take up arms or to urge others to do so. If the conditions are met, then, as St. Thomas Aquinas suggests, it is the corrupt authorities themselves who are really guilty of sedition and revolt against the common good of their communities. Therefore, if the rebellion is carried out with proportionate means and right intention, it is in fact praiseworthy as the “deliver[ance] of a community from tyrannical rule” (Summa Theologiae, II-II, 42, 2).
See: Authority; Civil Disobedience; Civil Law; Common Good; Politics; War.
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