How important is the humanities?

On August 6, local time, the first World Humanities Conference jointly organized by UNESCO, the International Council for Philosophy and Humanities and Liege, Belgium opened in Liege, Belgium. The conference lasted for one week and covered many topics such as immigration, environment, technology, culture, and sustainable development. The experts attending the conference had an in-depth discussion on the important role of humanities in human beings' response to a series of challenges.

Chao Gejin, Director of the Institute of Ethnic Literature, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and Chairman of the International Council for Philosophy and Humanities

Director of the Institute of Ethnic Literature, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, International Philosophy and Humanities Chairman of the Council Chao Gejin told a reporter from China Social Sciences News that the core idea of ??this conference is to reflect on the position and role of philosophy and humanities as well as the value and significance of leading mankind in today's changing era.

Nada Al-Nashif, Assistant Director-General of the Department of Social and Human Sciences of UNESCO, said that this conference aims to emphasize the important role of humanities in solving problems. The humanities should be better protected, more supported, and re-emphasized in research, education, and decision-making processes.

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Humanities and social sciences are indispensable

Chao Gejin said that today, with the rapid development and change of society, we must think about ancient and classic knowledge Meaning for today. Humanities are related to people’s spiritual life and inner emotions. Humanities usually have a long-term impact on human beings and do not solve short-term problems. In today's era of materialism and consumerism that focuses on solving short-term problems, people don't have the patience, time, and vision to think and practice humanistic ideas.

Luiz Oosterbeek, Secretary-General of the International Council for Philosophy and Humanities, told a reporter from the China Social Sciences News that in the past few decades, people seem to have fallen into a trap - just Focus on short-term issues. People need to have foresight, dealing with uncertainty and making decisions are all related to the humanities. The humanities are not only about the past and the future, but also about the present.

Chao Gejin believes that many of the major problems facing mankind today are comprehensive problems. Take the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as an example. Climate, immigration, war, differences in culture and belief, and the implementation of social fairness and justice. Each problem cannot be solved by scientific and technological progress alone.

“We must continue to defend the humanities and demonstrate their importance and power through explanation. This is also one of the reasons why this conference covers a wide range of topics.” Al-Nassif said that if not With an understanding of the humanities, the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development may not be achievable.