Which term is used for a dissenting view within a committee?

• A. Minutes
• B. Minority report
• C. Mock minutes
• D. Motion

Answer: (B)

The term used for a dissenting view within a committee is minority report. When a committee studies a matter and its majority recommendation goes to the full assembly, members who disagree can prepare a minority report to present their reasoning and conclusions. This formal statement travels with the committee’s report, ensuring the dissenting viewpoints are officially recorded and can be considered along with the committee’s recommendation.

Minutes, by contrast, are the official record of what happened during the meeting—what motions were made, who spoke, and what actions were taken—not a place to publish differing analyses. A motion is a proposal to take or not take a specific action, which is distinct from documenting a dissent. Mock minutes aren’t an official term in Robert’s Rules.