Consultation, or more precisely, group consultation, is a form of discussion that fosters
collective decision-making. It is a means for seeking consensus without contention and a method
for making just decisions, which takes into account the well-being of all, based on the investigation
of truth in a loving, united atmosphere

Those making a just decision must consider the effect it will have on the well-being of all stakeholders and base the decision on the broadest possible
knowledge of the facts and circumstances involved in the issue.

Therefore, just decisions require
the investigation of truth. Such an investigation implies exploring an issue from a diversity of
perspectives in an environment in which those perspectives are heard and give rise to a more
complete understanding.

The process of investigating truth requires a free exchange of points of view related to a
topic, in which all participants are equally respected without regard for their social or professional
status. As diverse ideas are dispassionately examined, taken up, left to one side, revised,
integrated, or built upon, a fuller understanding of the truth of a matter gradually comes to light,
reflecting the richness of a diversity of approaches.
The opinion of a very articulate person sometimes predominates in a discussion because
that person may be perceived to be more intelligent. However, according to John Gardner’s theory
of multiple intelligences, which is gaining favor within education and developmental psychology,
human beings have multiple intelligences. These can be used to carry out at least seven forms of
analysis: 1) linguistic (writer, poet), 2) logical-mathematical (scientist), 3) musical (composer), 4)
spatial (architect), 5) kinesthetic (athlete, dancer), 6) interpersonal (teacher), 7) intrapersonal (selfknowledge).
4 Depending on which kind of intelligence predominates in a person, that person will
perceive certain aspects of a problem with greater clarity than another. Appreciating the diversity
of intellectual endowments during consultation permits us to be receptive to all perspectives and
actively seek out everyone’s contribution.