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Consensus Is Not Unanimity: Making Decisions Cooperatively |
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Contributed by Randy Schutt
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Wednesday, 14 April 2004 |
What is consensus? Is it a cooperative, loving, nonviolent
process in which people share their best ideas and come up with superior decisions? Or is it a coercive, manipulative, time-wasting process in which those who are most treacherous, are most verbal, or have the most time can get their way? Or is it an idealistic fantasy where every problem always has a good, simple solution that incorporates everyone’s ideas (no matter how ridiculous) and satisfies everyone completely? These are the questions often raised by progressive activists. This guide to Making Decisions Cooperatively outlines the importance of consensus decision making and the best situations for its use.
Decision Making Structures vary widely, and it is useful be aware of the different decision making structures when working toward consensus.
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