The Riyadh International Philosophy Conference 2025 kicks off with the participation of 60 thinkers
The Saudi Commission for Literature, Publishing and Translation announced the launch of the fifth edition of the "Riyadh International Philosophy Conference 2025," a prominent cultural event hosted by the capital city of Riyadh. This year's conference will witness broad participation, including 60 thinkers and philosophers from around the world, making it an exceptional platform for exchanging visions and ideas, a significant step towards bridging the intellectual gap between East and West, and a reinforcement of the Kingdom's position as a global center for knowledge production and the management of constructive intercultural dialogue.
A renewed cultural context and a future vision
The launch of this conference cannot be viewed in isolation from the major cultural transformations taking place in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030. After decades of focusing on traditional aspects of education and culture, the growing interest in philosophy and the humanities reflects a genuine desire to build a vibrant society based on critical thinking and logical analysis. The conference's continuation for the fifth consecutive year is evidence of the institutionalization of cultural work, where philosophical activity is no longer a fleeting event but has become part of a national strategy aimed at enhancing the quality of intellectual life and empowering individuals with the tools of modern knowledge.
Philosophy between East and West: The Search for Common Ground
Under the theme "Philosophy Between East and West," this year's conference seeks to transcend the traditional approach based on conflict or intellectual rupture, transforming instead into a strategic bridge connecting experts and thinkers from different continents. In his opening address, the CEO of the Authority, Dr. Abdul Latif Al-Wasil, emphasized that philosophy does not recognize geographical boundaries, but rather focuses on the unity of the human question. This approach aims to dismantle superficial divisions and search for the profound commonalities that concern humanity everywhere, discussing major human issues with a holistic vision that transcends cultural biases.
Knowledge momentum and broad public presence
The King Fahd National Library is hosting the conference, which includes 40 intensive dialogue sessions delving into the roots of diverse schools of thought and discussing their mutual influence in interpreting current cultural transformations. The organizing committees expect to receive approximately 7,000 visitors over the three days, a figure that reflects a tangible shift in public sentiment and a growing interest in the humanities and philosophy within Saudi society, particularly among young people who are increasingly seeking profound answers to questions of meaning and existence amidst rapid technological advancements and the rise of materialism.
Regional and international impact of the conference
The Riyadh International Philosophy Conference holds significance that extends beyond the local sphere, as it is considered the most prominent philosophical gathering in the region. This event contributes to strengthening the Kingdom's soft power, presenting it as a beacon of intellectual and cultural influence in the region. Through the unwavering support of the wise leadership and the diligent efforts of the Ministry of Culture, Riyadh has successfully become a vibrant meeting point for global experiences, thus enhancing the Kingdom's influential presence on the international cultural scene and supporting efforts to foster intercultural dialogue in line with ambitious cultural and intellectual development goals.
