Explain the politics of consensus

The politics of consensus involves both political parties who give up a little of each party's agenda in order to reach an agreement.

Check these sites for more information.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Consensus

http://encyclopedia.jrank.org/Cambridge/entries/070/consensus-politics.html

http://www.answers.com/consensus

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The politics of consensus is a decision-making approach in which all participants work together to reach an agreement that is acceptable to everyone involved. It is often seen as a more collaborative and inclusive way of making decisions compared to traditional majority voting systems.

To understand the politics of consensus, it is important to understand the key principles and steps involved:

1. Inclusion: In the politics of consensus, all relevant stakeholders are included and given an opportunity to participate in the decision-making process. This ensures that diverse perspectives, interests, and concerns are taken into account.

2. Dialogue and deliberation: Consensus politics emphasizes open and constructive dialogue among participants. They engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and deliberate on various options and their implications. This promotes understanding and helps to identify common ground.

3. Building agreement: Consensus politics aims to build agreement through compromise and finding common interests. Participants work together to shape proposals that address the concerns of all stakeholders, seeking win-win solutions whenever possible. This requires active listening, empathy, and a willingness to adapt one's own positions.

4. Decision-making methods: The politics of consensus often employs facilitation techniques to guide discussions and ensure that all voices are heard. Various decision-making methods such as consensus voting, modified consensus, or consent-based decision-making may be used to reach a final agreement. These methods prioritize finding solutions everyone can accept rather than simply relying on majority rule.

5. Commitment to implementation: Consensus decision-making relies on participants committing to implementing and supporting the agreed-upon decisions, even if they personally disagree. This commitment is crucial to maintain trust and ensure the effectiveness of the consensus process.

The politics of consensus can be found in a variety of contexts, including community organizations, grassroots movements, government bodies, and international negotiations. It is often seen as a way to achieve more balanced and sustainable outcomes, as it encourages cooperation and seeks to minimize conflicts and divisions.