Using Consultation in Systematic Decision-Making
by Dr. Glenn Booman
Overview
A comprehensive process flow/relationship model of Bahá’í
consultation consisting of ethical (right/wrong), procedural (sequence
of steps), and directional (goals) components is outlined in graphical
form. Individual, group, and societal change can be viewed as occurring
through a series of decisions, each of varying importance and consequence.
In this view, a step in life transformation results from each decision/learning
process initiated by will and motivation and driven by an increasing
reservoir of love/unity combined with knowledge/wisdom.
Abstract
Cooperation, unity, and consensus building are basic to three fundamental
functions of humankind-making decisions, learning or education, and
resolving conflicts. The common structure is illustrated by means of
flow diagrams. Central to these processes is a non-adversarial, consultative
method, which serves the best interests of all members of society without
compromise. This consultative method is explained in terms of three
components: a procedural model, a universal ethic model, and a desired
future state model. Seven steps in formal consultation are given with
checklists of fundamental principles and desirable attributes, reflecting
widely accepted values as set forth in the world's major religions and
in many human rights statements. The application of computers is considered
as a means to directly assist the flow of consultative processes and
to provide a training aid in which the current feelings of each participant
are made known simultaneously.
Outline
1. Systematization — How do
we avoid chaos? Being effective, orderly. Systematic, rational procedures.
Message from the Universal House of Justice noting, ‘the value
of process’; ‘the necessity of planning’; ‘the virtue
of systematic action’; ‘coherence of understanding’;
and ‘well-ordered training.’
2. Transformation — Decisions
and change. How do we change? We can consider the overall changes in
the life of an individual, a group or a society as composed of a series
of decisions, each of varying importance and consequence. In this view,
life is seen as changing from an initial state (‘A’) to a
new state (‘B’) resulting from each decision/learning process,
initiated by will and motivation.
3. Consultation — An outline
from the viewpoint of transformation and based on unity in diversity.
A three-component framework: Ethical, Directional, and Procedural. How
do these work together?
4. Graphical — Development
of a Process Flow Model with identification of 19 components. A study
outline in graphic form (see Figure in handout). How do we show sequences
and relationships for 19 components?
5. Ethical — The ethical component
of consultation. A universal code of ethics. What is right and wrong,
good and bad? How do we achieve balance among attributes and values
that are all desirable - for example, justice and compassion?
6. Directional — The directional
component of consultation. Where do we want to go? A Universal Desired-Future
Model. A directional model, comprising a pattern, a clear vision of
a united future world with both near-term and long-term goals. Our future;
goals for individuals and a world society.
7. Procedural — The procedural
component of consultation. How best to attain goals? An outline of seven
sequential steps: creating warmth; finding facts; defining relevant
principles; listening/presenting; pooling/merging ideas; choosing the
best option; implementing and evaluating.
8. Interaction — Modes of Interaction.
How do we best communicate in consultation? Effective sharing. Computer
assisted consultation. The virtual computer.
9. Structural — Six principles
are evident from the structure of consultation.
Principle 1: Our life path and spiritual
growth are dependent on individual and group decisions.
Principle 2: Positive changes in us as individuals
and in groups can occur through our will and our motivation to change.
Principle 3: Successful consultation requires
three components: a universal ethic, a rational procedure, and a clear
vision of both near-term and long-term goals.
Principle 4: Cooperation, unity, and consensus
building are basic to three fundamental functions of humankind: making
decisions, learning or education, and in resolving conflicts with justice.
Principle 5: Universal values and attributes
can be defined for human interaction at all levels of our world society.
Principle 6: The interests of all members
of society are best served in a non-adversarial, consultative process
where decisions are made without compromise.
© Copyright Notice
The paper, “Consultation — An Outline of a New
Process for Good Decision Making,” by Dr. Glenn Booman accompanied
with a html slide presentation titled, “Using Consultation for
Systematic Decision Making,” is made available with kind permission
by Dr. Glenn Booman and Landegg International University. This paper,
with the html presentation, is copyrighted by the online Journal, Converging
Realities, for release in an upcoming issue. This paper and slide presentation
may be downloaded and printed for personal use by individuals and study
groups. It may not be copied for wider distribution without consent.
To request such permission, please e-mail Landegg International University
at info@landegg.edu.
Converging Realities, A Journal of Art, Science, and Religion is a registered
trademark of Landegg International University.
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Consultation
— An Outline of a New Process for Good Decision Making
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