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| UN Marks World Philosophy Day With Call for Use of Reason and Dialogue - Newsblaze.com Posted: 19 Nov 2010 02:27 PM PST Published: November 19, 2010 The United Nations marked World Philosophy Day today with a call for greater efforts to guard against the politics of polarization and the rejection of stereotypes, ignorance and hatred. "Let us instead fortify our societies through reason and dialogue - the lifeblood of philosophical debate," said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in a video message for an event marking the Day at the Paris headquarters of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). "And let us recognize the critical role that the age-old tradition of philosophy can play in our modern, interconnected world." World Philosophy Day is celebrated every third Thursday of November since 2002, with the aim of making philosophical reflection accessible to all - professors and students, scholars and the general public - thereby enlarging the opportunities and spaces for the stimulation of critical thinking and debate. "Philosophy deals routinely in universals - in broadly shared questions about human existence, beliefs and behaviour. That gives it uncommon power to help build bridges between people, and to open channels of communication among cultures," Mr. Ban said. "So let us use this essential expression of the human mind to change the minds of men and women - for that is where, as UNESCO's own Charter so memorably states, true peace begins." Celebrations to mark the Day were organized by academics in more than 80 countries, in all regions of the world. A special event was held at UNESCO Headquarters, interweaving philosophy, cultural diversity and the rapprochement of cultures - with the latter tying in to the 2010 celebration of the International Year for the Rapprochement of Cultures. Since its creation, UNESCO has used philosophy to implement the ideals that inspired its Constitution; these ideals stem from philosophical tradition. UNESCO's Director-General, Irina Bokova, inaugurated the Paris event, which included an international forum on the topic "Philosophy, Cultural Diversity and Rapprochement of Cultures," with the participation of internationally-renowned philosophers and eminent figures, in addition to a series of symposia and round-table discussions. "Philosophy actually teaches diversity lessons through its numerous schools of thought in all eras and on all continents," Ms. Bokova said in her message for the Day. "In view of the intricacies of current issues, we should tap into that wealth in order to build our capacity to analyse reality." She also called for intensified efforts to provide everyone with quality education and an enabling environment in which every man and woman can express his or her ideas and enrich public debate in furtherance of justice and peace. Source: United Nations Tags: greater efforts, reason, dialogue, fortify, ignorance, World Philosophy Day This entry passed through the Full-Text RSS service — if this is your content and you're reading it on someone else's site, please read our FAQ page at fivefilters.org/content-only/faq.php |
| Philosophy Lite: Live in God's glorious wonderland - Victoria Advocate Posted: 19 Nov 2010 02:13 PM PST By Raymond Smith The chances are that if you took a vacation this year, it was to some scenic area so that you might enjoy the grandeur of God's wondrous world. You may have gone to Yellowstone, Niagara Falls, the Ozarks, the Grand Canyon or the Rockies. But wherever it was, the view was one of admiration and reverence. Alaska is in the news today because of Sarah Palin's upcoming family program on Alaskan scenery and adventures. Many naturalists have been enthralled by the beauty and intricacy of nature. Ansel Adams spent most of the years of his life extolling the beauties and wonder of the High Sierras of California, especially the area of Yosemite. He said, "Yosemite valley, to me, is always a sunrise, a glitter of green and golden wonder in a vast edifice of stone and space. I know of no sculpture, painting or music that exceeds the compelling spiritual command of the soaring shape of granite cliff and dome, of patina of light on rock and forest, and of the thunder and whispering of the falling, flowing waters." What is it about a gurgling creek or a waterfall or a bubbling spring that excites us? There is something awesome about thunder, lightning and wind. Although some damage from the storm may occur, I still relish that experience. The English have always prided themselves on their gardens. When we were there a few years ago we visited three large and beautiful gardens. Those who have telescopes may be awed by the starry heavens. When I was a child, I took everything for granted, but as an adult I have become more contemplative and have learned to really appreciate the world God has given us. Especially since writing these articles, I have been more alert to signs of God and His extensive creation. Seeing a beautiful animal brings the Creator to mind. The American Indian and most primitive peoples around the world, regardless of their religion, hold the elements of God's creation in high respect. One of the joys of bringing up children is introducing them to the wonders of God's creation. And, during this time there will be frogs, horned toads, lizards, snakes and mice to be discovered. There will be the usual cat and dog to start with and later, gerbils or rabbits. Robert Louis Stevenson put it nicely, "The world is so full of a number of things, I'm sure we should all be happy as kings." That happiness depends on whether or not our eyes are open to the truth behind such things. Lastly, there is the wonder of the people themselves. Psalm 8:3 says, "When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars which thou hast ordained; what is man that thou are mindful of him?" God is indeed mindful of him and friendships with His people can also bring us joy and fulfillment. Raymond F. Smith is a deacon at Fellowship Bible Church in Victoria and president of Strong Families of Victoria. This entry passed through the Full-Text RSS service — if this is your content and you're reading it on someone else's site, please read our FAQ page at fivefilters.org/content-only/faq.php |
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