Japanese Sociological Review
Online ISSN : 1884-2755
Print ISSN : 0021-5414
ISSN-L : 0021-5414
The Possibility of Minimal Consensus
Naoki SUDO
Author information
JOURNAL FREE ACCESS

2000 Volume 50 Issue 4 Pages 496-508

Details
Abstract

The aim of this paper is to clarify a method of coexistence with others. The reason that we have to deal with this problem derives from the difficulty of coexistence with others in our society, which has become more global and complex than ever before. First, I analyze the formation of consensus in daily life, because consensus is understood to be the most basic condition of coexistence with others. However, it is made clear that some limits exist in previous methodology, which make it unable to be used in contemporary society. Next, I assert that if the previous means of consensus formation have not been effective, minimal consensus should be adopted. Minimal consensus can be formed when we cannot entirely understand each other. Minimal consensus is the basis of a new strategy for coexistence with others. The new strategy consists of toleration and assertion by both sides and enables us to accept others who may thoroughly reject our own basic values.

Content from these authors
© The Japan Sociological Society
Previous article Next article
feedback
Top