http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia_talk%3AManual_of_Style_(dates_and_nu...)
This page is a very good example of what's wrong with voting, as opposed to a more complex and subtle process of seeking general consensus. The voting method used here is not invariant to irrelevant alternatives. Blocks of votes can be split by clever advocates who partition the decision-space on minor lines.
Let's say I strongly prefer [[1 Janauary]], [[1984]]. Why? Well, if we're seeking consensus, I have to say why. But if we're voting, I can vote for any non-NPOV reason that I want. Let's imagine that I want it that way because that's not the American way, and the Americans can shove it. (This is not *my* position, nor anyone's, I'm sure, I'm just making an example.)
The individual alternatives listed aren't presented in an NPOV fashion. The page contains little discussion on the merits.
Basically, the voting idea pushes us to "take sides" and look for a "resolution" of an issue prematurely, rather than seeking to change minds and get everyone on the same page.
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Despite all this, there are benefits to the voting method, as well. I think the benefits often don't overcome the drawbacks.
--Jimbo