LibraryScenariosWhen teams find consensus decision-making reproduces existing inequalities
Scenario

When teams find consensus decision-making reproduces existing inequalities

My team says we want to operate by consensus but every time we try to make a decision together it takes forever and the people who talk the most end up getting their way and some people have stopped participating altogether.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Consensus processes without attention to power dynamics often amplify existing inequalities rather than creating the democratic participation they're designed to foster.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Ethical consumption?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.