Distinction
Many witch trials were conducted by local civil authorities, not simply by a single centralized Church mechanism.
Apologetics
Witch Trials
The history of witch trials requires distinction between doctrine, superstition, secular courts, local panic and early modern legal culture.
Theology
Catholic theology distinguishes real demonic evil from superstition, credulity and unjust accusation.
Judgment
Every unjust killing remains morally serious. Historical explanation does not excuse cruelty.