Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today highlighted the importance of developing a universal humanistic philosophy to attain lasting global peace and address the world's ongoing crises. Speaking as the chief guest at the 2nd International Conference on 'Philosophy for Peace' held at the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) auditorium of Dhaka University (DU), Swapon underscored that finding a universal philosophical space is the most critical task for achieving the desired peace.
Philosophy as a Cornerstone of Humanity
Despite his background as a political activist rather than a philosopher, Swapon emphasized that philosophy is the essential element that distinguishes human beings from other living creatures. 'Unless a person stands upon a philosophical foundation, they cannot truly preserve their humanity, even if they possess a human body and mind,' the minister observed. He noted that history shows that as soon as humans secured food and moved past basic survival, they began asking fundamental questions about their origin and destiny—marking the true journey of philosophy.
Call for a Unified Philosophical Platform
Swapon pointed out that traditional philosophies, no matter how noble, do not possess universal acceptance. He urged intellectuals to help shape a unified, human-centric worldview. 'Unless thinkers can build a common philosophical platform, the crisis of peace currently facing the world cannot be resolved,' he added.
Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof A B M Obaidul Islam inaugurated the event. In his speech, Prof. Obaidul Islam stated that philosophy is a profound analysis of life essential for building a knowledge-based society. He expressed optimism that the participating philosophers and Sufi scholars would offer constructive guidelines for worldwide peace-building. Other dignitaries present at the conference included State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam, Bangladesh Open University Vice-Chancellor Prof Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan, National University Vice-Chancellor Prof S M Amanullah, and Jahangirnagar University Vice-Chancellor Prof Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan.
