I don't think we are wired to be conditioned; we are trained. Neuroscience recently proved this. And it has been known for a long time that seeing this world of forms and objects is a learned way of relating to the world.

There is a very good reason to be conditioned, of course. If we weren't then we would not survive. So I fully agree with your point. And when we are interested and driven to see what is beyond this reality and the self we have to undo our self-centric perspective or it won't happen.

And, yes, if we chase ideas it goes nowhere except if we are doing it to for practical reasons such as getting an education, inventing something, or learning how to fix or improve something.

And your quote of "kill the buddha" is apt.

Thanks for this exchange!