Inquiry with Javier Gomez Rodriguez, October 11, 2026

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We gathered for a dialogue with Javier Gómez Rodríguez, exploring the nature of dialogue, psychological conditioning, and the possibility of fundamental change in ourselves and society.

Javier began by discussing David Bohm’s proposal for dialogue in the context of J. Krishnamurti’s teachings. Krishnamurti saw himself not as an authority but as a mirror reflecting what is, which each person must see for themselves. Bohm explored how people could continue this inquiry together, recognizing that although we feel separate, we share in the consciousness of humanity. Dialogue offers an opportunity to examine our common patterns and responsibility for the world.

The conversation turned to the question of repetition and psychological stagnation. While repetition and structure are necessary for practical life, psychological patterns can trap us in the past, sustaining familiar identities, fears, and desires. The group questioned whether we can distinguish functional habits from mechanical responses that prevent us from seeing what is actually happening. One participant described pausing before speaking to examine the intention behind their words, rather than reacting automatically.

This led to an exploration of conditioning: how associations, cultural expectations, advertising, and childhood experiences shape our responses, often without our awareness. Javier illustrated this through Pavlov’s experiments, in which a dog learns to associate a bell with food. Similarly, we may react to symbols and ideas rather than to the reality before us. The group also considered how deeply rooted beliefs about ourselves can persist long after their origins are forgotten.

Throughout the dialogue, participants questioned whether thought alone can free us from these patterns, given that thought itself is conditioned by the past. The inquiry remained open: can we become aware of our psychological habits without immediately trying to change or replace them? Such attention, shared through dialogue, may help us recognize the patterns that shape our relationships and our lives.

  • Anastasia Shtamina