Riyadh, December 08, 2024 – The Riyadh International Philosophy Conference, an event organized by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission (LPTC), concluded yesterday at the King Fahd National Library in Riyadh, marking a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s intellectual and cultural landscape. This year’s conference brought together 60 esteemed speakers from across the globe, who gathered to discuss the vital role of philosophy in shaping a better future and improving the quality of life in a multicultural world.
The conference’s central theme revolved around the concept of human flourishing—a broad and multifaceted notion that seeks to define what it means for individuals and societies to lead meaningful, prosperous lives. Through a series of thought-provoking discussions, the speakers explored how philosophy can serve as a guiding force in promoting societal well-being, addressing global challenges, and helping shape a more harmonious world in the face of rapid technological, social, and cultural changes. Topics covered included the impact of artificial intelligence on human life, the role of philosophy in the improvement of urban living, and how social solidarity can support marginalized groups, including female athletes with disabilities.
LPTC CEO Dr. Mohammed bin Hassan Alwan emphasized the importance of the conference in advancing philosophical thought and its relevance to contemporary issues. He noted that the event facilitated a purposeful dialogue among thinkers from various backgrounds, fostering an environment where intellectual exchanges could contribute meaningfully to addressing some of the most pressing challenges of the current era. The discussions, he noted, were not just academic in nature; they aimed to bring real-world applications to philosophical principles, thus bridging the gap between theory and practice.
A key feature of this year’s conference was its unprecedented collaboration with some of the most prestigious international organizations in the field of philosophy. For the first time in Saudi Arabia, the event partnered with New Philosopher, a prominent magazine that brings contemporary philosophical ideas to a wide audience, and The School of Life, a global organization dedicated to fostering emotional intelligence through philosophy. These partnerships underscored the Kingdom’s growing influence in intellectual and cultural circles, positioning Saudi Arabia as a hub for global academic discourse.
Throughout the sessions, the discussions delved deep into the classical philosophical principles of justice, virtue, and happiness, emphasizing their enduring relevance in today’s society. Speakers highlighted how these principles continue to inform debates around governance, ethics, and personal development. In particular, they examined how they can be applied to create prosperous societies that uphold human dignity and respect diversity, particularly in the context of the growing global emphasis on multiculturalism.
The Riyadh International Philosophy Conference is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader commitment to intellectual enrichment, cultural exchange, and fostering a deeper understanding of the world through academic exploration. By providing a platform for global thinkers to exchange ideas and insights, the conference has demonstrated the Kingdom’s ambition to contribute meaningfully to the global intellectual landscape and encourage the application of philosophical thought to address the world’s most urgent challenges.
As the conference concluded, it was clear that the event had successfully achieved its goal of promoting philosophical inquiry and its potential to create a better future. It also highlighted the Kingdom’s dedication to enhancing cultural dialogue, intellectual cooperation, and fostering a deeper connection between academic thought and the practical challenges facing society today.