What is Dynamic Community Governance?

Dynamic Community Governance is a method of governance that values the input and perspectives of each person. The principles and methods are derived from the science of cybernetics and the Quaker tradition of peace and education.

About the Center for Dynamic Community Governance

The Center for Dynamic Community Governance (CDCG) is dedicated to supporting the learning and practice of Dynamic Community Governance in Greenbelt and surrounding community. It is a method of governance that values the input and perspectives of each person.

We envision a world where all people have access to resources enabling them to live with dignity and work with equivalence and consent.

The Story Behind the CDCG Logo

Our logo represents the interconnectedness of community, work, and life itself. The colorful circles, beautiful and inspiring on their own, become richer when they intersect with the beauty of others. This is the CDCG mission and story: to teach a simple yet elegant governance model to community organizations and local businesses (the circles), made all the stronger by intersecting with other ‘circles’ using the same governance model. A true win-win, where we are all stronger by feeding and growing each other.

How Does Dynamic Community Governance Work?

Dynamic Community Governance Changes How We Work Together

Dynamic Community Governance (DCG) uses consent-based decision making so that everyone’s voice is heard and incorporated into policy decisions. DCG creates a safe space for everyone to unify around their strategies. Elegantly simple, DCG is a profound change from business as usual!

The Secret is In the Circles

Circles are our special sauce! Circles promote meaningful communication because all voices are heard as we go around. Circle steps and processes promote civility, diverse viewpoints, and respectful communication.

Consent-based Decision-making

Unlike traditional majority rule (or the boss’ decrees), Dynamic Community Governance uses innovative consent-based decision-making. It encourages collaborative thinking and saves time and energy because it doesn’t require consensus/agreement. We delight in decisions that are good enough for now, safe enough to try.

But What If Someone Objects?!

Great! Objections = welcome new information. In Dynamic Community Governance ideas are melded together to create an outcome that we would not have envisioned alone. Consent = no paramount objection. In other words, the decision fits comfortably within the group’s range of tolerance.