Qeverie

Qeverie is a term used in speculative fiction and worldbuilding to denote a system of social deliberation that foregrounds quiet listening, patience, and trust-based decision-making. In qeverie, governance emerges from structured spaces and practices designed to minimize noise and rhetorical combat, allowing participants to articulate concerns through measured speech, nonverbal cues, and a shared record of agreements. The concept encompasses both a set of rituals and a theoretical framework about epistemic trust and legitimacy.

Etymology: The word is a neologism likely derived from Latin roots such as quies (rest, quiet) and veritas (truth), with the -ie suffix indicating a practice or field. Its precise origin is debated in in-world lore.

Practice and institutions: Typical qeverie implementations include designated deliberation rooms or forums, time-bound speaking turns, and a "silence protocol" that permits reflection between contributions. Decisions rely on consensus or supermajority thresholds codified in a public charter. Some portray qeverie as a communal discipline that trains citizens in ethical listening, critical empathy, and transparent recordkeeping.

Reception and critique: In fictional contexts, supporters credit qeverie with reducing polarization and promoting legitimacy, while critics argue it can be slow, exclusive, or susceptible to capture by interest groups.

Variants: Adherents may describe themselves as qeverists; related concepts include quiet deliberation, veridical circles, and contemplative governance.

See also: deliberative democracy, conflict resolution, participatory governance.