His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, emphasised the significance of critique in the historical context of Arab culture, particularly in the realms of literature, philosophy, and thought, during his attendance at the launch of the fourth edition of the Fujairah International Philosophy Conference.
H.H. highlighted the essential role that critique plays in fostering objective intellectual freedom, promoting mutual understanding, and enhancing human and societal awareness through critical thinking, dialogue, and analysis.
The fourth edition of the Fujairah International Philosophy Conference was held under the patronage of H.H. the Crown Prince and organised by the Philosophy House in Fujairah. The event coincided with World Philosophy Day and centred on the theme, ‘Philosophical Critique’.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed also underscored the emphasis the Fujairah government places on promoting the role of thought and culture in society. These efforts align with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, to establish a knowledge-based society by empowering individuals and fostering generations that recognise the value of knowledge and intellectual development. In addition, these efforts also contribute to the nation’s progress and bolster its global competitiveness across all domains.
Furthermore, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed emphasised the importance of fostering intellectual and cultural dialogue among intellectual communities worldwide. H.H. highlighted the value of exchanging experiences, knowledge, and ideas on subjects that advance human thought, support its development, and create opportunities to enrich discussions on pressing philosophical issues, focusing on philosophical critique.
H.H. the Crown Prince commended the topics featured in the conference programme and expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the participants in its sessions, discussions, and activities. He also acknowledged their contributions to the success of the conference and its objectives, which aim to advance culture and philosophy.
The opening ceremony featured a welcome address by Dr Ahmed Barqawi, Dean of the Philosophy House, followed by a visual presentation showcasing the historical evolution of philosophical critical thought over the ages. Professor Purushottama Bilimoria, a faculty member at the University of San Francisco, delivered an inspiring speech emphasising the significance of philosophical critique from the perspective of various cultures.
The Fujairah International Philosophy Conference commenced with its first session, featuring a lecture by Dr Barqawi on the nature of philosophical critique and another session by prominent thinker Dr Abdullah Al-Ghathami on cultural critique. The session, chaired by Dr Sulaiman Al Hattlan, explored the distinctions and intersections between philosophical and cultural critique, highlighting their significance, as well as their comprehensive concepts.
The opening ceremony was attended by His Excellency Dr Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, Director of the Office of His Highness the Crown Prince of Fujairah, along with a distinguished group of philosophers, academics, intellectuals, and individuals with a keen interest in philosophical affairs from around the world.