What is a characteristic of consensus decision-making?

A characteristic of consensus decision-making is that every group member has equal influence on the decision. This approach emphasizes collaboration, where the idea is to engage all participants in the decision-making process, allowing each voice to be heard and considered. In consensus decision-making, the goal is to reach an agreement that everyone can support, which fosters a sense of ownership and commitment to the decision made.

This inclusive method contrasts sharply with the other options that suggest hierarchies or limited participation. For example, having decisions made solely by a leader undermines collective input and can lead to discontent among group members. Similarly, prioritizing input from select individuals restricts the decision-making to a few voices rather than embracing the diverse perspectives of the entire group. The notion of "majority wins" runs counter to the principle of consensus, as it can alienate those in the minority, making it difficult to achieve a collective sense of agreement. Thus, the essence of consensus decision-making lies in equal participation and shared influence among all group members.