The U.S. Constitution provides us with the core values of our democratic society. Democracy values freedom, equality, justice, and the common good. Our country was built on these values of liberty for all, and yet separation, corruption, and feelings of powerlessness are widespread within politics and business. One of the aims of Sociocracy is to more accurately uphold these democratic values that suffer in the current system.

The U.S. Constitution provides us with the core values of our democratic society. Democracy values freedom, equality, justice, and the common good. Our country was built on these values of liberty for all, and yet separation, corruption, and feelings of powerlessness are widespread within politics and business. One of the aims of Sociocracy is to more accurately uphold these democratic values that suffer in the current system.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: Sociocracy is a governance method from the Netherlands which is also called “Dynamic Governance.”

It is a whole system approach for the development of harmonious and adaptable organizations.  Sociocracy uses a fractal organizational structure with a circular hierarchy.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: Sociocracy is a governance method from the Netherlands which is also called “Dynamic Governance.”

It is a whole system approach for the development of harmonious and adaptable organizations.  Sociocracy uses a fractal organizational structure with a circular hierarchy.

Each circle is a working group that has a shared purpose and aim. Circles make decisions about responsibilities that are in their domain. The general circle is at the center, and consists of the leaders and delegates of the sub-circles. In the general circle, information can flow back and forth throughout the organization. The leaders let the circle know the overall operational plan. Delegates make sure that the voices of their sub-circles are represented and heard in the general circle. This leader and delegate structure is known as the double link, and it maximizes transparency and efficiency through the whole organization.

In Sociocracy, decisions are made based on consent. When a problem comes to a group, it is first explained thoroughly so that everyone understands the situation and the decision which must be made. Then, there is a process of problem solving. Sociocracy uses a tool called “rounds” where everyone in a group is allowed their turn to speak on the issue and provide input. Eventually, a proposal is formed and voted on.

DECISION MAKING: The main difference between Democracy and Sociocracy can be observed in the process of decision making. Democracy uses the rule of the majority. Often we see decisions made by a fractional margin. If 51% of the population is satisfied with a decision, 49% is dissatisfied. Sociocracy questions this system of consensus and follows the belief that we can do better.

 

At this point, a person in the group may present an objection. Objections are celebrated in a Sociocracy because they represent an opportunity for improvement. Because each group is formed around a shared purpose and aim, an objection must clearly describe how the proposal fails to meet this aim. Then, the proposal is improved until everyone can consent. The whole group takes responsibility for the objections and seeks to address the underlying concerns. This does not mean that every person is fully satisfied with every decision that is made, but the goal is to provide a proposed decision that everyone can tolerate.

Tori presenting on “Sociocracy”, an organizational structure for distributed leadership, empowering people and groups within domains.

 

FEEDBACK: Another key characteristic of Sociocracy is the value of consistent feedback. Sociocracy uses systematic observation, measurement, evaluation, and experimentation to test the success of its decisions. Circles may decide to revise their policies and practices, or may decide to extend the feedback process by involving other circles. This way, a circle can receive more input on how to make a decision in the realm of tolerance for everyone affected. Sociocracy seeks to create harmonious social environments with maximized productivity.

The Identity Movement will use methods of Sociocracy as our organization grows, and test the ideas presented here.

Tori Hoffman

Brand Manager

Tori Hoffman

Brand Manager