#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Quality of Life #Philosophy Conference #AI Ethics

Riyadh International Philosophy Conference 2024

The Riyadh International Philosophy Conference 2024 wrapped up its final day with a deep dive into discussions around the intersection of quality of life, existential truths, and the ethical considerations surrounding artificial intelligence (AI). Held at the King Fahad National Library in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this three-day conference gathered over 60 esteemed philosophers and thinkers from around the globe, including notable figures such as Dr. Fausto Fraisopi and Dr. Nermine Ezzeldin.

The overarching theme of the conference, titled “Philosophy and Quality of Life,” served as a vital platform illustrating Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering philosophical discourse both locally and globally. Dr. Mohammed bin Hasan Alwan, Chairman of the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, expressed satisfaction with the conference’s achievements, highlighting its role in addressing urgent societal challenges through the lens of philosophical inquiry. He remarked, "This conference has showcased the power of philosophy to tackle pressing issues of our time. By bringing leading thinkers together, we have fostered meaningful dialogue and inspired new ideas for a brighter future."

The event witnessed a remarkable turnout, attracting over 5,400 attendees from various sectors of society, proving its ability to generate a stimulating environment that marries the unique capabilities of the Kingdom with strategic collaborations with local and global partners.

Day Three Highlights

The final day featured an extensive agenda that addressed various aspects of human well-being, emphasizing the role of philosophy in shaping a better future amidst multicultural challenges. One of the day’s significant sessions was led by Dr. Walid Al-Zamil, focusing on creating inclusive and equitable urban spaces that cater to the diverse needs and values of all residents. Furthermore, Najat Al-Shafai's session highlighted the importance of social solidarity in empowering women with disabilities to engage in sports and recreational activities.

In an exploration of philosophy's relationship with religion, Dr. Chafik Graigue examined the nature of despair, while Professor Hossam Abdellatif navigated the evolving meanings of human dignity in a highly technological society. These sessions provided valuable insights into ages-old questions of human existence and the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements.

Another notable highlight was Dr. Ingy Hamdi’s session discussing “Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on Quality of Life: New Horizons and Ethical Challenges.” This session tackled the complex ethical dilemmas presented by AI, exploring ways to ensure technology is used to enhance human well-being rather than detract from it.

In addition, the conference offered workshops and seminars on critical thinking, argumentation skills, aesthetics, and the history of logic within Islamic civilization, equipping participants with practical tools to apply philosophical thinking in their daily lives. This year marked the first establishment of partnerships with prestigious international organizations, including New Philosopher and The School of Life, signaling Saudi Arabia’s entry into global philosophical networks.

The Riyadh International Philosophy Conference 2024 exemplified the significant role philosophy plays in addressing contemporary social challenges. By bridging the gap between academic theory and practical applications, the conference affirmed the Kingdom's dedication to intellectual enrichment and cultural exchange.

Overall, the conference successfully convened leading minds from around the world to engage with the pressing issues of our time, examining the philosophical underpinnings of quality of life while striving for innovative ideas and approaches that could lead to a better future for all.

For more information, please visit the conference website here.