The purpose is to solve the communication crises that face society,[2] and indeed the whole of human nature and consciousness.
It is named after physicist David Bohm who originally proposed this form of dialogue.
– David BohmA dialogue has no predefined purpose, no agenda, other than that of inquiring into the movement of thought, and exploring the process of "thinking together" collectively.
This activity can allow group participants to examine their preconceptions and prejudices, as well as to explore the more general movement of thought.
This form of dialogue seeks to enable an awareness of why communicating in the verbal sphere is so much more difficult and conflict-ridden than in all other areas of human activity and endeavor.
Dialogue should not be confused with discussion or debate, both of which, says Bohm, suggest working towards a goal or reaching a decision, rather than simply exploring and learning.
[7]Griffor emphasizes that in conventional discussion, [T]he self-defensive activity of each participant's idiosyncrasy […] prevents listening"[7] and that, in contrast, giving full attention to what the other participants mean can free the mind from socio-cultural accumulation, allow a free flow of meaning between people in a dialogue and give rise to shared perception and the creation of shared meaning in the sense of shared significance, intention, purpose and value.
After all, it is easy for each one of us to see that other people are 'blocked' about certain questions, so that without being aware of it, they are avoiding the confrontation of contradictions in certain ideas that may be extremely dear to them.
When we come together to talk, or otherwise to act in common, can each one of us be aware of the subtle fear and pleasure sensations that 'block' the ability to listen freely?Twenty to forty participants sit in a circle and engage in free-flowing conversation.
Participants "suspend" their beliefs, opinions, impulses, and judgments while speaking together, in order to see the movement of the group's thought processes and what their effects may be.
Armed with greater understanding of the larger picture, subordinates simply take independent action when they need to without being dependent on feedback from their manager."