Periagoge
Scenario

When consensus decision-making creates subtle coercion

Our housing co-op makes decisions by consensus which sounds great in theory, but in practice it means that one or two people who are really good at arguing or just more persistent end up getting their way while others of us give in to avoid conflict. The people who dominate don't seem to realize they're doing it and pointing it out feels like it would just create more conflict.

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Democratic processes can inadvertently privilege certain communication styles and conflict tolerances, creating hidden hierarchies within seemingly egalitarian structures.

Your guide for this
Juana
Juana works with people navigating exactly this kind of situation.
Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Gender identity — full spectrum?”

Peri

Peri can explain why this happens, help you decide if this is the right situation for you, and point toward the right journey or coach.

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