He said these things as the chief guest at the second international conference organized by the Bangladesh Philosophical Society at the Teacher-Student Centre of Dhaka University today.
Sheikh Faridul Islam, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, was present at the event as the distinguished guest.
The Information Minister said, when human beings got the opportunity to think beyond the basic struggle for survival, the fundamental questions — ‘Where have I come from?’ and ‘Where will I go?’ — arose within them. In continuation of that quest, philosophy was born, and later various religions were established as one of the main fields of philosophical practice.
He said, although every religion in the world contains teachings for human welfare, philosophical diversity has been created due to different interpretations and schools of thought. Just as various philosophies developed in the Sanatan religion, there are also various thoughts and interpretations in Islam. This reality proves that the practice of philosophy in human civilization is an ongoing and multidimensional process.
He emphasized a universal philosophy based on humanity, tolerance and mutual respect to ensure world peace.
He further noted that the solution to any crisis in the world largely depends on the perspective of looking at the problem. A person or society that holds a humane philosophy seeks constructive solutions to crises; whereas a narrow outlook prolongs division and conflict.
The Information Minister called for building a common philosophical platform among thoughtful people to resolve the ongoing global crisis of peace.
Among others, Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University Professor Dr. A B M Obaidul Islam, Vice-Chancellor of Jahangirnagar University Professor Dr. Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan, and Vice-Chancellor of National University Professor Dr. A S M Amanullah spoke at the event.