How did Charles Taylor argue that communities with different values can still agree on policies?

Charles Taylor argued that communities with different values can still agree on policies through the concept of an overlapping consensus.1

While Taylor acknowledges that different communities may hold distinct ultimate values, he maintains that they can reach an agreement on specific norms and policies even if they arrive at those conclusions for different reasons. This approach allows for practical cooperation despite fundamental disagreements regarding moral or cultural foundations.1

A practical example of this can be seen in the United States, where activists on opposing sides of the abortion debate have successfully worked together to support policies such as making adoption easier and improving the quality of day-care centres. By focusing on shared policy goals rather than conflicting underlying values, diverse groups can find common ground and achieve meaningful social progress.1