About Consensus
Consensus is the agreement by the members of a group concerning an opinion, position, proposal or course of action. The essence of consensus is intellectual agreement. Consensus is a deliberate, voluntary agreement about a particular statement it or action. To have consensus each member must be convinced of the position or proposal. A person may have some reservations or feel that another opinion is stronger, but nevertheless is able to agree honestly and intellectually. For consensus each person has heard all the arguments and can honestly support this decision.
Since consensus is intellectual agreement the process of reaching consensus is discussion or dialogue. This throw light on some obstacles to consensus.
- Rigidity in opinions. I won't move no matter what is said. Close-mindedness spells the demise of consensus.
- Aggressiveness. A persons assumes a hostile, suspicious attitude to all contrary opinions. I may not be too sure of my own, but I enter into the discussion with the determination, or the attitude, that I'm going to let anybody push me around.
- Smothering. This is an unwillingness to hear other opinions or we seek to repress their expression because we want to avoid conflict.
- Impatience. It may be that we are in a hurry, or we are simply the sort of person that doesn't like to get too deeply involved in matters.
Techniques to arriving at consensus
The first, and: indispensable condition for achieving consensus in a group is, that everyone respect the opinions of the others. To pre-judge before hearing what others have to say, to consider others as "lightweights" will inevitable impair consensus. We must take the position that other people are reasonable, are intelligent and well-intentioned; and thus we take the attitude that it will be worth our while, as also a mark of respect to others, to listen fully to what they have to say.
- Treat others with respect. This is the essential ingredient in consensus decision-making. It means more than verbal politeness. Rather it is a basic Christian attitude operating on the assumption that persons are of value and have the right to be listened to. It means listening to what every person has to say without prejudging their positions. Generally, people are reasonable, intelligent, and well-intentioned, and listening fully indicates respect for them and for what they have to say.
- Take time for the necessary discussion. A free and open exchange of ideas continues until each individual's position is heard and understood. An individual member or the chair might summarize at this point what is perceived as the points of agreement and disagreement.
- Search for general agreement. Attempt to whittle down areas of disagreement. Ask individuals to re-clarify :these points and discuss. In the process of clarification and discussion, persons frequently realize that their point of disagreement is not a vital one. One person may say, 'Well. I don't agree completely but I see the validity of your position and I can live with that."
- Formulation of a conclusion. When one or more persons acknowledge the validity and acceptance of other's position, a mutual agreement can be reached.
(If consensus does not occur at the conclusion of this process and sufficient time has been given for discussion, drop the matter and move on with the meeting. There may be a need for further research on the subject and prayer. Deal with it at a later date when the group will have had time for reflection).
How is Consensus Different from Compromise?
Compromise is achieved by "mutual concessions": each person settles for something less than what is desired. Consensus is "general agreement" and since each person's position is respected and fully heard, the emotional climate is far better.
There is also a relational difference between compromise and consensus. The process of consensus tends to create closer relationships in a group and thus builds group solidarity. Persons usually like a consensus better than a compromise because individuals and their gifts are honored, creativity is encouraged, and there are no losers.
Synod Initiatives
- Evangelization and "The New Evangelization"
- Structures for Participation and Accountability
- Ongoing Education and Formation: Adults, Young Adults and Youth
- Ministry and Leadership: Lay, Consecrated Life and Ordained
- Eucharist and Sacramental Living
- Social Justice: Living at the Service of God's Reign
