"Principles of Healthy Democracy"

Our times compel us to reaffirm the principles of democracy and take action. We recognize there will always be a gap between the aspirational ideals of democracy and its actual practice. We will use these principles as inspiration to achieve the highest possible expression of democracy as individuals, communities, institutions, and society as a whole.

• Shared power: Equality of access. Citizens set the agenda. People and communities believe they have and actually have power and influence over the decisions that affect their lives.
• A journey, not a destination: Dynamic, evolving and active. Constantly being reinvented. Accommodates corrective action. Adaptive responsive and builds learning. Concerned with the whole. Integrated into everyday life.
• Inclusive and compassionate: Champions the rights and voices of all.
• Shared responsibility: Recognizes and encourages diversity and interdependence.
• Learning, action, evaluation, and participation.
• Exercise shared responsibility for being informed.
• Commitment to the common good.
• Thoughtful and respectful deliberation: Public, safe, and appropriate space and time for sharing and deliberation
• Public trust: Citizens and leaders are stewards. Responsibility and integrity of leadership. Citizens are leaders; leaders are citizens.
• Freedom of expression: Everyone choosing to be heard is heard and understood.

These principles for developing an effective "online community" were developed by The America Speaks Conference, Designing for Democracy, 4/9/97.