What gets in our way is history and culture and religion and economic conditions. It is part of the hypnosis of our social conditioning.

In this quote, Deepak Chopra argues that many of the obstacles we face in life are not solely the result of external forces or personal shortcomings but are deeply influenced by history, culture, religion, and economic conditions. These societal constructs shape the way we perceive the world and ourselves, often limiting our potential. Chopra suggests that these forces form a kind of hypnosis, a social conditioning that shapes our thoughts, actions, and decisions, often without us even realizing it.

Chopra's concept of hypnosis here refers to the idea that much of our behavior is shaped by unconscious societal influences, leading us to accept certain norms, beliefs, and limitations as though they were truths. History and culture, for example, define how we view success, relationships, and identity, often imposing restrictive roles based on past events or inherited traditions. Similarly, religion and economic conditions can create frameworks that limit individual freedom or self-expression, pushing people into predefined molds.

By describing this as a hypnosis of social conditioning, Chopra points to the need for awareness and awakening from these imposed patterns. He believes that by recognizing the influence of these factors, individuals can begin to break free from their constraints and create a more authentic life. This idea ties into Chopra’s broader philosophy of self-awareness and spiritual growth, where people are encouraged to transcend societal programming in order to access their true selves and achieve personal freedom.

The origin of this quote stems from Chopra’s work as a spiritual teacher and advocate for holistic health. His teachings often emphasize the need to go beyond conventional thinking and break free from the limits set by external forces, encouraging individuals to reconnect with their inner wisdom and intuition. This perspective aligns with his broader philosophy of self-healing and mindfulness, aiming to empower people to live beyond the constraints imposed by society, and to realize their potential beyond cultural, religious, and economic limitations.