Bohm observed that the attempt to explore the limits of thought exposes a coalescing of understanding, through the words, play, frustration, and periods of silence in the dialogue. As such, dialogue is distinct from discussion group, rhetorical or persuasive exercise, or the intellectual or academic seminar. While participation is helped by being informed about Bohm's ideas regarding dialogue and other theory, it is also possible to closely observe and understand dialogue through experience. The need to achieve a solution is suspended early in the dialogue in favor of hearing each other and learning about each other. Advice-giving is an inappropriate behavior in dialogue.
Dialogue can only take place in a power equal environment among colleagues.
Power equality is achieved when all parties surrender their need to be dominant or to win their point. There is no win-lose in dialogue. Some Suggestions on the Nature of Dialogue Dialogue starts from a willingness to be tentative about what you know. The focus of dialogue is on what is rather than on ideas and opinions. You can participate by verbally or silently sharing perceptions.