[sinkspur]

Did you read the article? Papal selection of bishops is, historically, a rather recent occurrence, even in America. St. Augustine was chosen by the people.

I don't advocate that it be a totally democratic process, but more input from "the faithful" would be a wise move at this point.

[Romulus]

I don't advocate that it be a totally democratic process,

Well, why didn't you say so, old boy? Votes to be restricted to Catholics who'll vote the right way? That'll fix it.

[eastsider]

The third century text Apostolic Tradition by Hippolytus, for example, says that a bishop is to be chosen by “all the people” and that this selection is to be approved by assembled priests and bishops. Most bishops in the early Christian centuries were selected this way, such as St. Augustine.

Putting aside for a moment the fact that Hippolytus was the first known anti-pope (which fact gives me some pause as to his motivation for the "Apostolic Tradition"), the fact that the popular election has to be approved by the "assembled priests and bishops" would seem to be a good check against heretical and liberal excesses.