Compromise

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A compromise is a means of conflict resolution in which both parties agree on some outcome that is not exactly what either party wants. A compromise is not an ideal outcome, as neither party is truly happy with the outcome. Although the word "compromise" sometimes has a positive connotation, the word can also be used negatively, such as "compromising your values".

In Why This Way, we see compromise as a fall-back option in conflict resolution, less desirable than solutions in which every party comes out fully happy with the outcome. Our rules of communication and process of communication are designed to prevent unnecessary conflict, and ensure that people can more easily reach outcomes, like consensus where everyone is happy, and, in the cases where a compromise is reached, that the compromise is as desirable as possible to all parties.

Voting as compromise

In a group of people, voting to resolve a disagreement about how to approach a situation may be a form of compromise. In situations where no one in the group has a strong preference, and all people would be happy with any outcome presented, voting can be a good way to come to a decision. But if some members in the group are not comfortable with all of the options presented for voting on, then voting is a form of compromise, and may not be the best way to come to a decision.

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