"Consensus is what many people say in chorus but do not believe as individuals"

This quote by Abba Eban talks to the idea that consensus is typically a superficial arrangement in between individuals, instead of an authentic belief held by each individual. It suggests that when individuals pertain to an agreement, they may be saying the same thing in chorus, however they do not always think it as people. This might be due to the fact that they are trying to reach a compromise, or because they hesitate to reveal their real viewpoint. It could likewise be since they are trying to please the majority, or due to the fact that they are not exactly sure of their own viewpoint. In any case, this quote suggests that agreement is not constantly a reflection of true beliefs, however rather a collective contract that may not be held by each individual.