Consensus as a Form of Decision Making

Abstract

Analyzes the consensus process as used in decision making on the basis of the Quaker experience, the social psychological research, and the function of consensus-based political groups such as the League of Women Voters. The Quaker experience highlights the importance of shared ideology, members' capacity for self-awareness and sensitivity to others, structural arrangements that limit conflict, and criteria for the internal ranking of members that are consistent with the goals and values of the group. The social psychology research has demonstrated that consensus-oriented groups are superior to groups organized on the principle of majority rule in terms of the quality of the decisions produced, the utilization of member resources, and the resolution of conflicts. These results, together with observations concerning the use of consensus in political decision making, indicate the value of the consensus process. Difficulties in consensus-based decision making are noted in its time-consuming nature and the requirement that members surrender personal power and accept conflict as a natural part of the group process. (22 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2004 APA, all rights reserved)