Simple majority

[Guest Evelyn]

What is the definition of simple majority?

[Guest Edgar]

What is the definition of simple majority?

Well, many here bristle at the use of the word "simple" but a majority is (simply?) "more than half". A majority vote is more than half the votes cast. A majority is not, as some would have it, "50%+1".

[Gary Novosielski]

There is no definition of "simple majority" in RONR.

There is a "majority vote" defined, and that means more than half of the votes cast.

Some call that (incorrectly) a "simple" majority, possibly to distinguish it from a 2/3 vote, which many of those same people (incorrectly) call a "2/3 majority"

The proper terms are "majority vote" and "2/3 vote". Then there's no confusion in the first place.

[JohnR]

One often hears (especially in the press) of "simple" and "super" majorities, neither of which is defined by RONR.

[Guest lion hunter]

what determonds which one you use?

[JohnR]

The bylaws and parliamentary authority determine what vote is required.

The general principle is that decisions are made by majority vote. Certain motions, which have the effect of rescinding, changing or suspending rules or matters already decided, require a two-thirds vote. The whole enchilada is covered in RONR.

Note that the bylaws can specify different rules.