The driving belief behind distributism is that economics and government are subject to ethics. It is an economic theory, but it is not limited merely to ideals; distributism proposes a practical alternative to more familiar economic systems such as capitalism and socialism. Distributism’s proposals are often viewed as radical because of the monopolistic nature of these prevailing systems.

The distributist way is one that centers the good of the individual around the good of the community, such that the individual cannot prosper unless the community does, and vice versa. Distributism emphasizes local businesses, stewardship of private property, and a decentralized governmental role in society and economics.

Popes Leo XIII and Pius XI, GK Chesterton, and Hilaire Belloc are considered major influences on the elaboration of distributist ideas.