Sage-Tips

How do Quakers make decisions?

In making decisions Friends do not simply vote to determine the majority view, but rather they seek unity about the wisest course of action. At AFSC, the Board and Executive Committees make decisions in a worshipful spirit using Quaker process.

What are the three 3 levels in the process of developing consensus within a meeting?

Consensus Decision-Making– Participants make decisions by agreement rather than by majority vote. Inclusiveness– To the extent possible, all necessary interests are represented or, at a minimum, approve of the decision. Accountability– Participants usually represent stakeholder groups or interests.

Which of the following is the meaning of consensus decision making?

Consensus decision making is a creative and dynamic way of reaching agreement between all members of a group. Instead of simply voting for an item and having the majority of the group getting their way, a group using consensus is committed to finding solutions that everyone actively supports, or at least can live with.

What is the importance of consensus in decision-making?

An effective consensus process (consensus-building) is inclusive and engages all participants. Consensus decisions can lead to better quality outcomes that empower the group or community to move forward to create their future together.

How do you do consensus decision making?

Key guidelines for consensus decision-making Participants are usually asked to agree to operate by consensus, use gentle candor, put interests and concerns on the table, attend meetings faithfully, remain flexible and demonstrate willingness to listen to proposals of other participants.

What is the consensus building process?

Consensus building is a process involving a good-faith effort to meet the interests of all stakeholders and seek a unanimous agreement. A consensus building approach allows groups to reach an overwhelming agreement among relevant stakeholders and maximize possible gains to everyone.

When might making a decision by consensus not be the best method to use?

When there are no good choices: Consensus process can help a group find the best possible solution to a problem, but it is not an effective way to make an either-or choice between evils, for members will never be able to agree which is worse. If the group has to choose between being shot and hung, flip a coin.

What are the stages of consensus building?

There are five essential steps for consensus building in your group negotiations:

• Include the right people and set expectations. Take time to assess who will be affected by a deal.
• Assign roles and responsibilities.
• Engage in group problem solving.
• Reach agreement.
• Hold people to their commitments.

Are there better ways of arriving at consensus?

Top tips for participating in consensus decisions Be willing to work towards the solution that’s best for everyone, not just what’s best for you. Be flexible and willing to give up your favourite idea if there’s another solution that meets your core needs. Help to create a respectful and trusting atmosphere.

What are the disadvantages of consensus decision making?

They take less initiative when outcomes may not sit well with everyone, thereby missing opportunities for improvement or success. They struggle with decisions when they fail to achieve consensus, eroding trust in their leadership. Their indecisiveness limits progress, thwarting people’s efforts to complete assigned …

What is Quaker decision-making?

Quaker decision-making is grounded in the belief that when several people come together to labor in the Spirit they can discern a truth that exceeds the reach of any one individual. In making decisions Friends do not simply vote to determine the majority view, but rather they seek unity about the wisest course of action.

What is a Quaker business meeting?

In my understanding of Quaker spirituality and Quaker theology, a business meeting is an opportunity for sacramental encounter with God. Sometimes people talk about how Friends make decisions by consensus. That’s a secular term that has some kind of meaning that people understand: ok, you’ve all agreed on something.

What is “community” in Quakerism?

Community is one of the ways that Quakers have the experience of God, and so Quakers are very careful about community and not creating disharmony or divisiveness in the community, and Quakers are willing to take a long time to preserve the unity of community, because community is so important to the experience of worship.

What is Quaker voluntary service?

Quaker Voluntary Service has opportunities for young women and men interested in social and personal transformation through service work and living in Quaker community. Worship with Friends! Find Quakers near you on QuakerFinder and Friends Journal’s meeting listings