What significance does the majority decision hold for us and where does it come from? This unique comprehensive presentation of the history of this fundamental democratic decision-making tool looks beyond the European horizon for the first time. The emergence and development of majority decision-making are examined across cultures and epochs, from antiquity to modern times. Historically, politically, and anthropologically, the author investigates societies in Greece, Rome, India, Israel, and Iceland, exploring the role that majority decisions played in them, how they were constituted as a form of decision-making, and the regulations under which they were carried out. Egon Flaig demonstrates that the development of cultural achievements, such as the ability for logical argumentation or controversial debate, can only be understood in light of their significance for achieving majority decisions.