How important is deliberation?
Very; one of the characteristic strengths of PB is that it enables local people from a range of backgrounds to come together to hear each other’s experiences and priorities articulated, often for the first time. The opportunity to discuss what they have heard and perhaps think about what will benefit the whole community, rather than just their own interests, is likely to result in more considered decisions and reinforce community cohesion. It can be difficult to incorporate space for deliberation in a voting event, but there are ways in which this can be done without taking up too much time.
