 | This is an essay on the Consensus can change section of the Consensus policy. It contains the advice or opinions of one or more Wikipedia contributors. This page is not an encyclopedia article, nor is it one of Wikipedia's policies or guidelines, as it has not been thoroughly vetted by the community. Some essays represent widespread norms; others only represent minority viewpoints. |
 | This page in a nutshell: Before using Consensus can change as a rebuttal, consider the reasons why consensus was initially established. |
Often, during a proposal that has been shot down in the past, someone (almost always the proponent), rebutts the reasons for denial with a simple link to Consensus can change. This may be viewed by some as dismissive, ignorant, and refusal to drop the stick. If you are planning on using this as an argument, recall the reasons why consensus was established in the first place. Maybe it was after years of discussion? Maybe there is something you failed to consider that provides a very good reason to have that particular consensus established? Of course, consensus can and does change, but it doesn't have to change.