Conflict, Compromise, Consensus
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Definition
Conflict is the general pattern of groups dealing with disparate ideas.
A compromise is a deal between different parties where each party gives up part of their demand.
Consensus is the result of a group decision-making process in which group members develop, and agree to support a decision in the best interest of the whole.
5 conflict strategies (collaboration = consensus)
Despite the positive connotation of compromise, a compromise is when all involved parties fail to achieve acceptance of all their goals. A compromise is better than a failed agreement, but real success requires uncompromised consensus.
In order to achieve consensus common values and goals must be identified. Goals are driven by motivations, which establish values. Consensus requires understanding that the values behind goals count more than the actual goals themselves. A shared value is a starting place for dialogue.
Note
“New Work” frameworks, such as Sociocracy and Holocracy, prefer the term consent over consensus.
See Also
External Resources
- Tips for Neutral Communication (blog)
- Consent in Sociocracy (video tutorial)