Resistance polling¶

Resistance polling, also known as "systemic consensing," reverses the usual perspective. Instead of measuring approval, it measures resistance. The option with the lowest total resistance is selected. This approach identifies the most broadly acceptable option among the available choices.

How it works in Rhizome¶

All participants indicate their level of resistance on a scale for each option. A low value means you can support the option. A high value signals concerns. The option with the lowest total resistance wins.

If during a consent or consensus process an objection cannot be resolved by modifying the original proposal and an alternative proposal emerges, Rhizome automatically creates a resistance poll to compare the options.

Use cases¶

Use resistance polling as a preliminary gauge before a final decision. It shifts the perspective away from approval logic and toward finding the option with the least opposition. This makes it a strong foundation for a subsequent consent or consensus decision.