What does consensus-building aim to achieve in a group setting?

Consensus-building aims to create shared resolutions and understanding among group members, which facilitates collaboration and cooperation. This approach encourages open communication and active participation, allowing all voices to be heard and considered. The ultimate goal is to reach an agreement that reflects the collective views and interests of the group rather than just a simple majority opinion.

By focusing on achieving a common understanding, consensus-building enhances commitment to the group's decisions, as all members feel invested in the outcome. This leads to stronger relationships, increased trust, and a more cohesive team dynamic. In contrast, approaches that emphasize majority agreement, division of opinions, or minimizing discussions may lead to unresolved conflicts, feelings of disenfranchisement among members, and decisions that lack collective support or understanding.