Blog #8

What are the preconditions necessary for using consensus decision making in a group or organization? What are the strengths and weaknesses of the process?

            From the readings I inferred that for consensus decision making to occur there must be unanimity and participation. If everyone can’t come to a final solution, then the group doesn’t move forward. When a member is not comfortable letting the group progress it is the responsibility of the consenting members to bring them to a middle ground. It is not wrong for a member to still question the motives of the group as a whole. If they were not made comfortable the decision would no longer be unanimous. It struck me, what Carolina Estes said comparing democracy and consensus decision making; “yes you can come to a decision, and the majority has clearly carried, but it’s their decision, it’s not our decision.” In a consensus you can come to terms with the final answer. It may not have been your ideal answer, but you are willing to support what has been created through incorporating every member’s values.

            Participation is another precondition for consensus decision making. If you miss a gathering to cover an issue that a decision must be made upon, your input is not accounted for. In this way consensus decision making is similar to democracy. It is hard enough coming to an agreement with every member that does attend. Even when you are in attendance it is important to participate actively. Consensus decision making supports the group, but only if the group supports it.

            Consensus decision making can be slow and may not always arrive at the best most efficient solution due to compromises. While it is true people rarely slow down the group by refusing to compromise, it is just as likely people will try to not be a hindrance by not voicing their opinion at all; therefore, defeating the purpose of consensus decision making. However, it is truly a decision of the people, made by each active member.