"Historically, the claim of consensus has been the first refuge of scoundrels; it is a way to avoid debate by claiming that the matter is already settled"

This quote by Michael Crichton is a warning against the abuse of consensus. He is recommending that people have actually often used the concept of consensus to prevent debate and to press their own agenda. He is indicating that consensus must not be used as a way to shut down dispute, but rather as a method to notify it. He is also recommending that agreement ought to not be utilized as a method to prevent considering alternative viewpoints. Instead, he is promoting for open and truthful debate in order to reach a true consensus. This quote is a reminder that consensus should not be utilized as a tool to silence dissent, but rather as a method to cultivate understanding and development.