Questions people actually ask.
Why four people?
This is only a 30 minute conversation. Research suggests that humans have limits to their ability to imagine what other people are feeling or thinking — what psychologists call “theory of mind.” Tracking the inner states of more than four people while staying present in a conversation takes a lot of mental bandwidth. A group of four provides a layer of safety, a feeling of belonging, and the conditions for meaningful exchange.
What if our group wants to meet longer than 30 minutes?
That’s entirely up to the group. Out of respect for everyone’s time, start with the 30 minute structure — then extend if the whole group wants to. If some want to continue and others need to leave, form a new group and hear more perspectives. That’s part of the Timekeeper’s holds.
Is it safe?
You are meeting with a group of strangers who all want to talk about the same thing. Think of it like a conversation at an airport or a bus stop — public, purposeful, and time-bound. We strongly recommend staying in public spaces. If you don’t feel safe, do what you would do anywhere else — leave, call for help. The Peacekeeper holds this responsibility within the group.
Can we move to a different location?
Moving within a public space is fine — from one area of a park to another, for example. Moving to a private home is not recommended. If people outside the group are interfering, recording, or inserting themselves, this is one of the Peacekeeper’s responsibilities to address.
Can we share personal information with each other?
That’s not recommended — but it’s your choice. The purpose of Paxior is to meet once, share perspectives, and walk away with a feeling of increased understanding. Ideally, you’d have as many conversations with as many different people as possible. That said, we’re not policing anything. Should you choose to share — that’s your human right.
Can’t I just do this with friends or family?
You can — but you’re more likely to encounter like-minded people in your existing circles. There may also be sensitive topics you want to explore that feel risky to raise with people close to you. Paxior offers a space to think out loud without the fear of damaging a relationship. What you learn might actually become a bridge for the conversations with those closest to you.
Can my teen attend?
If you’d be willing to let your teen talk with a group of people, then absolutely. We need a diversity of ages and experiences to learn varied perspectives.
Ask yourself: would you let them do this alone, like an after-school job or on their way to school? If yes — then absolutely. Would you let them if you were nearby but not listening in? If yes, go with them and give them space. If not yet, then not yet.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just yourself and a willingness to listen as much as you speak. Paxior kits — which include talking tokens, role cards, and conversation prompts — are available if you’d like a little more structure. But they’re never required.