Lajihit

Lajihit is a fictional cultural practice used in worldbuilding and speculative fiction to describe a formal framework for communal decision-making and dispute resolution in imagined societies.

Etymology: In the primary imaginary language of the setting, lajihit is composed of elements meaning “listen” and “accord” or “consent,” reflecting its emphasis on listening and consensus.

Definition and mechanism: Lajihit centers on structured listening sessions in which participants speak in turn, guided by a moderator; outcomes are sought through agreement rather than simple majority, with minority protections and restorative guidelines.

Practice and institutions: Councils, elder circles, or guilds may institutionalize lajihit; rituals may include an oath of listening, a procedural time-out, and a final affirmation.

Cultural role and reception: In stories, lajihit serves to explore themes of justice, community, and governance; it can generate tension when interests collide or when power asymmetries distort process.

See also: worldbuilding, governance, consensus decision-making, ritual.