Delphi method: Difference between revisions

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==The Delphi method and consensus building==

The '''Delphi method''' is a communication technique aimed at building an agreement, or [[consensus]] about an opinion or view, without necessarily having people meet face to face. This can, besuch achievedas through surveys, questionaires, emails etc. using the [[Hegelian dialectic]] process of ''thesis'' (opinion or view), ''antithesis'' (criticism or debate) and finally ''synthesis'' (agreement or consensus).

To build consensus, the Delphi method often uses the [[Hegelian dialectic]] process of ''thesis'' (establishing an opinion or view), ''antithesis'' (conflicting opinion or view) and finally ''synthesis'' (a new agreement or consensus), with synthesis becoming the new thesis. All participants in the process shall then either change their views to align with the new thesis, or support the new thesis, to establish a new common view. The goal is a continual evolution towards 'oneness of mind', or consensus on the opinion or view.

== The Delphi method and the Hegelian dialectic ==

The person co-ordinating the Delphi method can be known as a ''facilitator'', and facilitates the responses of their ''panel of experts'', who are selected for a reason, usually that they hold knowledge on an opinion or view. The facilitator sends out questionaires, surveys etc. and if the panel of experts accept, they follow instructions and present their views. Responses are collected and analysed, then common and conflicting viewpoints are identified. If consensus is not reached, the process continues through thesis and antithesis, to gradually work towards synthesis, and building consensus.

The Delphi method and consensus building are both founded in the same principle - the [[Hegelian dialectic]] of thesis, antithesis, and synthesis, with synthesis becoming the new thesis. The goal is a continual evolution to "oneness of mind" (consensus means solidarity of belief). In thesis and antithesis, opinions or views are presented on a subject to establish views and opposing views. In synthesis, opposites are brought together to form the new thesis. All participants in the process are then to accept ownership of the new thesis and support it, changing their views to align with the new thesis. Through a continual process of evolution, "oneness of mind" will supposedly occur.

== The Delphi method and forecasting ==