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Tape study groups organized by The Prosperos function according to principles of group-centered leadership. The operative principle is that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and that the group as an entity is more capable and effective in directing itself than it would be if it functioned under a strong leader.
Because group-centered leadership empowers individuals and fosters active listening it is a powerful tool in the development of genuine democracy.
The principle of the unity of consciousness is fundamental to The Prosperos’ approach to everything. Each individual in the group is recognized as the presence of mind, consciousness, which is unity expressing in infinite variety. A personal advance in consciousness for any member produces a group advance in consciousness. This approach requires specific group strategems :
* groups are encouraged to continue discussing a point until members “come to one mind” about the solution.
* an idea which is raised by any member of the group becomes the property of the whole group. It is no longer “X’s idea” but “an idea” which the group, as consciousness, is considering.
* all group members should participate in order to tap all of the resources of mind that are available.
A group-centered approach means that each group member is responsible to see to it that more reticent participants are encouraged to speak up and more vocal participants are restrained from dominating the discussion. Of course, the group moderator takes on this role more actively, but the principle still applies to every member of the group.
Prosperos tape study groups use a group observer who does not participate in the discussion and who reports back to the group at the end of the meeting. The observer’s report is to be heard, digested, and not discussed. (Thane Legacy Community discussions generally do not use a group observer.)
Take the view that the other participants in the discussion represent a hall of mirrors for you. If you find yourself reacting to comments made in the discussion, use the disciplines you have learned to do some unlearning before posting a response. [If you haven’t taken the fundamental Prosperos classes check them out. They are very helpful.]
Remember that the most “difficult” participant in a group discussion often leads the group to a higher and more complex understanding of the issues – eventually.
If you persist in the disciplines involved in group dynamics, you will learn how to understand the unique “language” that others are speaking and listening from. You will develop highly valuable skills that will increase your ability to contribute in a multiplicity of circumstances.