Which statement best describes the difference between consensus and majority vote in decision making?

• A. Consensus seeks general agreement and buy-in; majority vote decides with the greatest number, potentially excluding minority concerns.
• B. Consensus requires formal voting; majority vote aims for unanimity.
• C. Consensus is faster; majority vote ensures complete agreement.
• D. Consensus ignores minority concerns; majority vote always includes all stakeholders.

Answer: (D)

The main idea tested here is how decision-making outcomes reflect different goals for inclusion and speed. Consensus aims for broad agreement and buy-in from the group, investing time in discussion and adjustments so that most if not all stakeholders can support the final choice. This approach values inclusivity and long‑lasting acceptance of the decision, even if it means a slower process. Majority voting, by contrast, resolves things by picking the option with the most votes. It provides a clear, quick decision but can leave a significant minority dissatisfied because their views didn’t reach the threshold for approval. So the statement that best captures the distinction describes consensus as seeking general agreement and buy-in, while majority vote decides by the greatest number and can exclude minority concerns. The other descriptions misrepresent how consensus or majority voting typically works.