Meaning: The quote "And thought struggles against the results, trying to avoid those unpleasant results while keeping on with that way of thinking. That is what I call 'sustained incoherence.'" by David Bohm, a prominent physicist and philosopher, encapsulates a deep insight into human cognition and behavior. David Bohm is best known for his work in quantum mechanics and his exploration of the nature of thought and consciousness. In this quote, Bohm is pointing to a fundamental aspect of human psychology and the way we often grapple with the consequences of our thoughts and actions.

Bohm's concept of "sustained incoherence" reflects the idea that our thought processes can become entrenched in patterns that lead to contradictory or inconsistent outcomes. This can occur when our thoughts and beliefs are at odds with the reality we encounter, yet we persist in maintaining those patterns of thinking. The struggle against the results refers to our cognitive dissonance, where we resist accepting the implications of our actions or beliefs when they clash with our desired or expected outcomes.

Bohm's use of the term "sustained incoherence" suggests that this internal conflict can persist over time, leading to a state of prolonged inconsistency and mental tension. This concept has implications not only for individual psychology but also for broader societal and cultural phenomena. It speaks to the ways in which entrenched patterns of thought and belief can lead to systemic incoherence and discord, both on a personal level and within larger social structures.

From a psychological perspective, Bohm's notion of sustained incoherence aligns with research on cognitive dissonance, which refers to the discomfort experienced when holding conflicting beliefs or attitudes. When individuals encounter information that challenges their existing beliefs, they may experience cognitive dissonance as they struggle to reconcile the inconsistency. This can lead to various coping mechanisms, such as rationalization or avoidance, in an attempt to reduce the psychological discomfort caused by the conflicting beliefs.

Furthermore, sustained incoherence can also be seen as a barrier to personal growth and development. When individuals are unable to acknowledge and address the inconsistencies in their thinking, they may be hindered in their ability to adapt to new information and experiences. This can perpetuate a cycle of stagnation and resistance to change, preventing individuals from fully engaging with the world around them and embracing new perspectives.

On a broader scale, Bohm's concept of sustained incoherence has implications for understanding societal and cultural dynamics. It speaks to the ways in which entrenched ideologies and belief systems can lead to persistent societal tensions and conflicts. When groups or societies cling to ways of thinking that are at odds with the evolving reality, it can result in sustained incoherence at the collective level, leading to social upheaval, polarization, and a resistance to meaningful progress.

In conclusion, David Bohm's quote on sustained incoherence offers a profound insight into the complexities of human thought and behavior. It sheds light on the ways in which internal cognitive struggles can lead to prolonged inconsistency and resistance to change, both at the individual and collective levels. By acknowledging the pervasive nature of sustained incoherence, we can strive to cultivate greater self-awareness, critical thinking, and openness to new perspectives, ultimately fostering personal growth and societal harmony.