Plurality and Consensus

1. Plurality and Consensus LCS Consulting http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf

2. The Reality of Plurality How do we address a multitude of opinions, identities, priorities, beliefs? How do we find commonality and cohesion in an individualistic society? What role will organizations play in the future? http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf

3. Within Organizations • Both plurality and consensus play a role within organizations. • Plurality within an organization can contribute to a well rounded understanding of relevant issues. • Consensus is important in order for organizations to present a unified front and adhere to clear, common goals. http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf

4. Increasing Diversity • It is projected that within the next 30 years, there will no longer be a racial majority in the United States. • But at the same time, our neighborhoods and schools are resegregating. • In the 1999-2000 school year, three million public school students spoke English as a second language. (http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf)

5. A Culture of Individuals • Societies can be either individualist or collectivist. • Individualistic societies • predominantly socialize their members to view themselves as individuals and to prioritize their personal goals (Kenrick, 2007) • Collectivist societies • predominantly socialize their members to view themselves as members of the larger social group and to place the group's concern before their own (Kenrick, 2007) http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf

6. A Culture of Individuals • Our individualist culture has significant implications for education. • Emphasis on importance of getting ahead (as opposed to contributing to society). • Recognition and praise for individuals and their achievements. • Conflict over offering equal benefits or equalizing outcomes. http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf

7. Finding Common Ground Americans are increasingly decreasing their participation in traditional groups and associations. The small communities that traditionally formed around shared interests are being replaced by internet groups. Even the nature of group membership has changed – members are less engaged. http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf

8. Pitfalls of Plurality The term social capital refers to the “features of social organization…that facilitate coordination and cooperation for mutual benefit”. Plurality while not diametrically opposed, does not foster the development of social capital. http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf

9. Benefits of Social Capital Norms of reciprocity and social trust Facilitates communication Broadened sense of self and feelings of social responsibility/accountability. http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf

10. Declining Social Capital Decrease in stay-at-home moms. Increased mobility Increasing technological leisure time Changing demographics http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf

11. So What? Declining social capital may be the result of decreased civic engagement. By increasing the political involvement of your organization, you can encourage the community to invest in social capital. http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2004/2004035.pdf