The purpose of the conversation is to express and exchange information and ideas with others. This communication may be either spoken or written. It may be an expression of differing opinions to convince another individual or group to narrow down their differences.

The conversation may happen internally within a group, say, for decision-making. This may also be between people, groups, institutions, governments, the media, experts, and others. This includes internal and external communication within and between all sections. It may be a simple exchange or a deep interaction.

When we talk about analytical processes and decision-making, it is to address problems and evolve solutions. The roots of the problems and the collection of information in respect of them may not rest internally and may extend to any part of the system, including the people.

The operation to diagnose, treat, and cure the disease may start with any part, including the root, depending on the urgency, type of ailment, condition of the patient, and expertise of the doctor or surgeon. This includes the equipment and tools that we possess or create.

The conversation includes long-term actions like creating awareness and educating people about all types of problems. The attitudinal, behavioural, cultural, and emotional issues are long-term problems. But the absence of information or internal discussions is more of the short-term type.

All types of conversations can take place simultaneously to address one issue or many issues. It may be between any combination of groups, both as long-term and short-term measures. The conversations will reduce the gaps, leading to better understanding and solutions.

But the conversations are mostly very limited. They are flawed, improper, incomplete, and lack focus. People’s involvement is rare. No one is less important, whether one is inside the governmental structure or outside it. The whole perception and process are flawed.

People include many with abilities and experience. They may volunteer their opinion. Many of them will do it willingly, whether in groups or as individuals, if institutions are receptive and responsive. It may come at a very low cost. Everyone can make suggestions.

All interactions are very valuable. Whether it is between people, institutions, experts, groups, or anyone else, they do bring clarity. They can become more productive if the interactions are in-depth, logical, objective, and focused. Those who control or guide it can ensure it.

We can go on endlessly about flaws in our conversation. There is no need for it, as it is very clear that the scope to improve is immense. One thing that needs to be mentioned is that most of us are not open-minded. The degree may vary, but if we change, it will benefit us.

We are not receptive to new ideas. We hold on to our views as if they were property rights, intellectual or real, with no value. The real value is the commitment to logic, sense, and truth. One’s perception should change if ideas appeal to their conscience, mind, or heart.

We get habituated to holding on to our views firmly without applying our minds or inner voices. Feeling correct means feeling prejudiced against new information. Conversations bring clarity to our minds and thoughts. We should be receptive and responsive in our conversations.

Conversations narrow the space between people with different views and perceptions. This in turn leads to the consolidation of views to limit them within the boundaries of reason, sense, clarity, agreement, accord, and unity. Their energies will then be spent in productive ways.