Consensus Meaning
Consensus Definition & Usage
A general agreement or collective opinion reached by a group as a whole.
Examples
- "After hours of discussion, the team finally reached a consensus on the project's direction."
- "The government's policy was shaped by the consensus of several experts in the field."
- "It was clear that there was no consensus among the voters, with opinions split evenly."
- "The consensus in the office is that we need to extend the project deadline."
- "While the consensus among the group was clear, some members still voiced minor objections."
An agreement in which the decision-making process is built on the idea that everyone agrees, even if it is not unanimous.
Examples
- "The consensus democracy model suggests that policy decisions should reflect the broad agreement of all stakeholders."
- "In philosophy, consensus is sometimes used as a basis for moral or ethical truths."
- "The United Nations often aims for consensus when making global decisions, even if full agreement isn't achieved."
- "Building a consensus in a large organization can be a lengthy and complex process."
- "The teacher encouraged consensus-building in the classroom, allowing students to discuss their differing opinions before making decisions."
Cultural Context
The word 'consensus' comes from the Latin 'consentire', which means 'to feel together'. It is commonly used in decision-making, diplomacy, and group dynamics. Achieving consensus often implies that a group has come to an agreement after discussion, and it is viewed as a way of achieving harmony and unity, especially in complex or polarized situations.
The Consensus of the Council
Story
The Consensus of the Council
The council was divided. On one side were those who believed in sweeping reforms, and on the other, the traditionalists who valued the established order. Hours passed with heated debates, but no agreement seemed possible. Yet, as the sun began to set over the council chamber, a quiet breakthrough occurred. One of the senior members suggested a compromise that could incorporate aspects of both views. After a few moments of reflection, the room slowly grew silent, and one by one, each member nodded in agreement. This moment, subtle yet significant, marked the creation of a consensus—a collective decision that harmonized the needs of all parties involved. Though not everyone fully agreed, they all recognized the wisdom in this new approach. The council had reached a decision, not by majority rule or absolute agreement, but through mutual respect and understanding. In the end, the consensus was not only a political victory but a reminder of the power of cooperation over division.
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