Consensus

Consensus has two common meanings. One is a general agreement among the members of a given group or community, each of which exercises some discretion in decision-making and follow-up action. The other is as a theory and practice of getting such agreements. Achieving consensus requires serious treatment of every group member's considered opinion. Once a decision is made it is important to trust in members' discretion in follow-up action. In the ideal case, those who wish to take up some action want to hear those who oppose it, because they count on the fact that the ensuing debate will improve the consensus. Consensus occurs when sufficient information is available that the answer is obvious to everyone, according to Warren Avis (American car rental pioneer).