In sociocracy, do we need "good enough" understanding to make "good enough" decisions?



I guess in sociocracy, it is important to have a “good enough” understanding to make “good enough” decisions. While sociocracy does not require unanimous agreement or exhaustive knowledge, it emphasizes the importance of making decisions based on an appropriate level of understanding and information.

In sociocracy, decision-making is consent-based, which means that decisions can move forward as long as there are no reasoned objections. To ensure that decisions are well-informed and considered, it is essential to gather relevant information, seek input from those affected by the decision, and engage in open dialogue and exploration of various perspectives.

While it may not always be possible or necessary to achieve a comprehensive or perfect understanding of a situation or issue, sociocracy encourages a sufficient level of understanding that allows for effective decision-making. This requires transparency, communication, and the sharing of relevant data and insights.

The aim is to ensure that decision-makers have access to enough information and perspectives to make informed choices that consider the interests and needs of all stakeholders involved. While it may not always be possible to have absolute certainty, decisions made with a “good enough” understanding can still be effective and responsive to the organization or community’s needs.

Sociocracy values the input of all members and strives to ensure that decisions are well-informed and take into account the perspectives and expertise of those involved. The emphasis on “good enough” understanding recognizes that complete unanimity or perfect knowledge may not always be attainable or practical. It acknowledges that decision-making often involves complexity and uncertainty.

Sociocracy seeks to strike a balance between ensuring sufficient understanding and moving forward with decisions in a timely manner, recognizing that decisions can be revised or adapted as new information emerges or circumstances change.

Ultimately, sociocracy encourages an ongoing learning mindset, continuous feedback, and a commitment to revising decisions if new insights or objections arise. This approach allows for an iterative process where decisions can be refined and improved over time based on the evolving understanding and needs of the organization or community.


If you want to share your personal reflections on this topic, please feel free to do so in a comment below. Thank you.

Best wishes!


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  2. Sociocracy – basic concepts and principles:

  3. Why Sociocracy For All (SoFA)?

  4. Social Justice Statement of Sociocracy For All:

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  7. SoFA Membership - Why join Sociocracy For All?

  8. Sociocracy Training

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  11. Many Voices One Song – A sociocracy manual

  12. Who Decides Who Decides? - How to start a group so everyone can have a voice!

  13. Let’s decide together - The definitive guidebook for practicing decision-making with children

  14. Meeting Evaluation Cards - This is the Meeting Evaluation Cards product by Sociocracy For All

  15. Case studies

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