As part of the ongoing academic and scientific cooperation between Iran and Austria on crucial global issues, an online seminar titled “Global Theories of Peace: Towards Critique and Completion” was successfully held on March 13, 2025 (Esfand 23, 1403). The event was organized by the Austrian International Institute for Peace (IIP) and the Iranian Wisdom House in Vienna.
It took place online from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Vienna time, bringing together Iranian, Austrian, and other European scholars to discuss the revision and completion of peace theories with a future-oriented perspective.
The seminar was moderated by Mag. Stephanie Fenkart, Director of the IIP, and covered key topics such as the theoretical challenges of peace, reflections on contemporary peace theories, the role of traditional and indigenous capacities in shaping global peace models, and the advancement of justice in peace theories in the era of globalization. Discussions also included the “World-City” theory, global governance, and their challenges and opportunities for peace.
Among the prominent speakers, Professor Heinz Gärtner from the University of Vienna and Deputy Director of Research at the IIP delivered a lecture on “Concepts of Peace and Security.” Professor Thomas Sauer from the University of Antwerp discussed “Peace and Disarmament,” while Professor August Pradetto from the University of Hamburg raised the question of “The Greatest Challenge to Peace in Europe.” Meanwhile, Dr. Reza Gholami, Professor of political philosophy, presented on “The World-City Theory, Global Governance, and Its Opportunities and Challenges for Peace.”
During the seminar, Dr. Reza Gholami, described open and constructive academic dialogues between Iran and Europe as a valuable experience for both sides. He expressed hope that such academic discussions would continue in the future, emphasizing that such interactions could enhance mutual understanding and academic collaboration between Iran and Europe.
Other speakers included Dr. Mandana Tishehyar from Allameh Tabataba’i University, who spoke on “The Iranian School of Peace and Its Role in the Contemporary World.” Additionally, Dr. Abdolmajid Mobaleghi presented on “The Impact of Sharia on Peacebuilding or Conflict Persistence in the Middle East,” and Dr. Tayebeh Mohammadi Kia discussed “The Concept of Farr(ah) Izadi in Iranian Thought and Its Role in Fostering Global Peace.”
The seminar provided a platform for meaningful discussions and introduced several new ideas, emphasizing the importance of dialogue with mutual respect as a prerequisite for finding innovative solutions to global peace challenges.
Furthermore, this successfully organized event created a cooperative space for exchanging ideas and advancing global discourse on peace theories.
Notably, a collection of the seminar’s abstracts will be published by the Iranian Wisdom House in Vienna.
The booklet The Brilliance of Philosophy in Islamic-Iranian Civilization has been published in Vienna.
This booklet was prepared by the House of Iranian Wisdom in Vienna on the occasion of the first Islamic philosophy training course at the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Vienna.
It provides a brief overview of the legacy of Islamic philosophy, with a foreword by Dr. Reza Gholami, a professor at the Institute for Humanities and Cultural Studies.
The booklet explores the history and impact of Iranian philosophy from the early Islamic civilization to the contemporary era, analyzing its role in the development of human thought.
It highlights the influence of eight great and renowned Iranian philosophers—Al-Farabi, Avicenna (Ibn Sina), Suhrawardi, Nasir al-Din al-Tusi, Mir Damad, Mulla Sadra, and Allameh Tabatabai—on Islamic philosophy and the intellectual tradition of the Islamic world. Additionally, it examines the connections between Iranian philosophy and mystical and ethical issues, briefly analyzing how this rich heritage has influenced modern thought.
The booklet also delves into the mutual interactions between Iranian philosophy and Greek and Islamic philosophical traditions, showcasing Iran’s role as a bridge between various cultures and civilizations. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts of philosophy and Iranian history, particularly non-Iranian students interested in philosophy.
This 80-page booklet has been published by Uni-Dialogue Publications in Austria.
Date: Friday, January 10, 2025
2:00 PM (14:00 Iran Time) | 8:00 AM (Vienna Time)
The philosophical insights of Thomas Hobbes continue to shape contemporary discussions on political philosophy, particularly regarding the state, liberty, and justice. As part of its celebrated lecture series, “The Joy of Philosophy,” the Wisdom House of Iranians in Vienna presents an engaging exploration of Hobbes’ perspectives on the social contract as articulated in his seminal work, Leviathan.
Lecture Details:
Title: Exploration of Hobbes’ View of the Social Contract in Leviathan
Presenter: Dr. Reza Gholami
Senior Lecturer in Political Philosophy, Cultural, and Civilizational Studies
This written lecture by Dr. Gholami offers a fresh perspective on the enduring relevance of Hobbes’ theories in understanding the foundation of political authority and the complexities of governance. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into one of the cornerstones of political philosophy.
Event’s Code: 010
The Wisdom House of Iranians in Vienna has published a detailed 29-page brochure introducing the rich tradition of Nowruz, the Persian New Year, in both English and German. This meticulously crafted brochure offers one of the most accurate and engaging explanations of the Nowruz celebration, which marks the beginning of the solar Hijri calendar.
The brochure delves into the cultural and historical significance of Nowruz, highlighting how Iranians and other nations within the greater Persianate civilization celebrate this age-old tradition. It provides a vivid description of the rituals, festivities, and deep-rooted symbolism associated with Nowruz, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking to understand this cultural treasure.
Availability:
Interested individuals can purchase the brochure by contacting the Wisdom House of Iranians in Vienna.
For further information, visit www.wisdomhouse.at (http://www.wisdomhouse.at/) or reach out directly to the center.
Date: December 12, 2024
Vienna Hosts Seminar on Philosophy for Children and the Challenges of AI
On Thursday, December 12, 2024, a groundbreaking seminar titled “Philosophy for Children in the Face of Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Threats” took place in Vienna as part of The Joy of Philosophy Lecture Series 3. This thought-provoking event brought together prominent philosophers, educators, and AI researchers to discuss the future of the Philosophy for Children (P4C) movement amidst the rapid rise of artificial intelligence.
The Philosophy for Children movement, a vital aspect of modern education systems, aims to foster critical thinking in young minds by engaging them with logical reasoning techniques. It encourages children to navigate the complexities of contemporary life by distinguishing between rational and irrational choices, enabling them to make sound decisions. P4C promotes the cultivation of reflective, reasonable, and depth-oriented individuals in a consumer-driven, trend-focused world.
The key question driving the seminar was whether the advent of artificial intelligence poses an existential threat to the P4C movement. Does AI stifle deep thinking, or could it serve as a platform for advancing philosophical engagement among children?
Expert Panelists and Insights
The seminar featured esteemed speakers, including:
• Dr. Reza Gholami, Faculty Member of IHCS and the Iranian Wisdom House in Vienna.
• Mag. Michael Wissgott, Director of the Wikiphilo Institute.
• Prof. Dr. Thomas Bauer, Vienna University.
• Mag. Alexander Rosenits, Member of Wikiphilo Institute.
• Dr. Noureddin Mahmoudi, Faculty Member of IHCS, specializing in Philosophy for Children.
• Dr. Moslem Taghizadeh, AI Researcher at the University of Tehran.
• Dr. Saeed Naji, Faculty Member of IHCS and Director of the Iranian Department of Philosophy for Children.
These experts tackled the challenges AI brings to the Philosophy for Children initiative, emphasizing its potential to both threaten and enhance philosophical education. Discussions underscored that while AI may present risks—such as reducing the emphasis on critical thinking—it also offers unique opportunities for expanding the reach and depth of philosophical inquiry.
The seminar highlighted the pivotal role of AI technology leaders, educators, and parents in shaping how AI integrates into philosophical education for children. Responsible engagement with AI could turn it into a tool that fosters rather than hinders deep thinking and rational decision-making in younger generations.
This seminar was organized by the Wisdom House of Iranians in Vienna in collaboration with the Wikiphilo Institute and the Iranian Institute for Humanities and Cultural Studies (IHCS). For more information about the event, visit www.wisdomhouse.at.
Event’s Code: 009
The written speech by Dr. Reza Gholami on December 3, 2024, at the House of Iranian Wisdom in Vienna, Austria
Hannah Arendt is one of the most prominent thinkers of the 20th century whose ideas have profoundly shaped our understanding of politics, power, freedom, and totalitarianism. Her works, including The Origins of Totalitarianism and The Human Condition, go beyond merely analyzing historical events. They represent an effort to rethink the foundations of politics and collective human life. Arendt, with her critical yet original perspective, dissected the crises of modernity and explored the collapse of values and institutions essential for preserving human freedom and dignity…
Event’s Code: 008
Date: November 26, 2024
A meeting on the book Power and Progress by Professors Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson—both renowned academics, with Acemoglu being a recent Nobel laureate in Political Economy—was held at the Cultural Office of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Vienna on November 26, 2024. The discussion focused specifically on the book’s analysis of artificial intelligence (AI). Dr. Reza Gholami and Dr. Farhad Bayani, two prominent Iranian scholars, led the session.
Dr. Farhad Bayani, a sociologist and faculty member of the Research Institute for Cultural and Civilizational Studies opened with a concise overview of the book, emphasizing its examination of the interaction between technology (especially AI) and socio-economic structures. The authors argue that AI’s impact depends on societal choices and the distribution of power. While AI can enhance productivity, it also risks intensifying inequality. They advocate for policies that steer technological development toward collective well-being and support innovations that complement human skills.
Dr. Bayani highlighted the book’s strengths, including its integration of economics and history, clear narrative, focus on pressing human challenges, and policy-driven recommendations. However, he critiqued the book for oversimplifying social complexities, offering broad generalizations, neglecting cultural and historical nuances, and maintaining a narrow definition of progress. Additionally, he pointed out biases in the authors’ approach and a lack of originality in their theoretical framework.
To address these shortcomings, Dr. Bayani suggested that future editions explore global AI governance, emphasize lifelong learning and skill development, and integrate ethical and cultural considerations into the analysis. He concluded by calling for a more comprehensive engagement with the intersection of technology, society, and global governance to ensure AI advancements benefit humanity equitably.
Dr. Reza Gholami, followed by elaborating on the book’s central focus: job displacement caused by AI. He described the book’s framework as rooted in economic liberalism and its methodology as historical. He noted the authors’ dual aim of fostering global economic growth and leveraging AI for public welfare, while rejecting collectivist approaches. He characterized their vision as advocating a moderate and justice-oriented economic liberalism that seeks to balance individualism with democratic reforms to regulate AI’s development.
While acknowledging the book’s emphasis on democracy and formal institutions for managing AI’s risks and benefits, Dr. Gholami reiterated Dr. Gholami’s critique, noting the neglect of broader social and international dynamics.
The meeting concluded with a Q&A session, during which the scholars addressed four questions from the audience, further deepening the discussion on the societal and global implications of AI as presented in Power and Progress.
Event’s Code: 007
Date: September 30, 2024
On September 30, 2024, the Pre-Meeting of the 1st International Conference on Philosophy for Children took place as part of the Cultural Dialogue Series (Austria), Meeting No. 3, under the theme In the Depth of Cultures. Dr. Reza Gholami, Senior Lecturer in Political Philosophy and Cultural and Civilization Studies, Vienna, chaired the meeting and delivered an opening address on the significance of philosophy for children. He emphasized the transformative effects of philosophical inquiry on children’s intellectual and emotional growth, outlining the long-term benefits for human development, including enhanced critical thinking, creativity, and empathy. Following this introduction, Dr. Mohammad Reza Vaez Shahrestani from the Universität Bonn, Germany, gave a presentation on Kant’s Maxims of Common Human Understanding in the Community of Philosophical Inquiry. Dr. Saeed Naji from the Institute for Humanities and Cultural Studies, Tehran, Iran, then spoke on Verisimilitude in the Community of Inquiry. After these presentations, an interactive Q&A session was held, allowing participants to engage with the speakers by asking questions and deepening the discussion on the topics presented. Please note that no audio or video recordings of this session were made, but the outcomes and discussions will be published in written form in the near future.
Event’s Code: 006
Date: July 25, 2024
In the session *Development of AI and Humans: From Partnership to Competition*, held both in-person and online on July 25, 2024, three top Iranian researchers from Europe and Iran delivered speeches on various aspects of artificial intelligence. The session was moderated by Dr. Reza Gholami, senior lecturer in political philosophy and cultural and civilizational studies. The first speaker, Dr. Abutaleb Safdari, a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute of Philosophy, University of Bremen, Germany, gave a talk on *”Embodied Partnership with Machines: Observations from Mars Exploration.”* The second speaker, Dr. Hassan Bahrami, who holds a PhD in computer science from the University of Technology Sydney, Australia, addressed the topic: *”Can AI Replace Human Consciousness?”* The third speaker, Dr. Mohammad Hossein Moghadam, Assistant Professor of Foresight and faculty member of the Institute for Social and Cultural Studies (ISCS) in Iran.
Event’s Code: 005
Date: July 2, 2024
In the scientific session titled *U-turn in Understanding of Culture in the Cognitive Science Era*, held on July 2, 2024, from 11:00 to 12:30 (Vienna time), both in-person and online at the House of Iranian Wisdom in Vienna, Dr. Leila Ardebili, a faculty member at the Institute for Cultural, Social, and Civilizational Studies at the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology in Tehran, and Dr. Fatemeh Shafiei, a cognitive science expert and active researcher in linguistics and culture, delivered speeches. The scientific management of the session was led by Dr. Reza Gholami, senior lecturer in political philosophy and cultural and civilizational studies. The full recording of the speeches is available for those interested at the following Button:
Event’s Code: 004
Date: June 26, 2024
This series of lectures, which begins on June 26, 2024, will be held weekly on Tuesdays. Professor Reza Gholami will explain the most important theoretical problems in the field of justice studies. The series is expected to consist of 16 sessions. The text of these lectures will gradually be made available for interested individuals on Dr. Reza Gholami’s personal website:
Event’s Code: 003
Date: May 31, 2024
The *Forty Hadith* is one of the well-known books in the field of ethics and self-purification, authored by Imam Khomeini. In this book, following the recommendation of the Prophet of Islam for every Muslim to preserve and spread forty hadiths, Imam Khomeini selected forty moral hadiths and provided explanations for each. During this session, held on May 31, 2024, Professor Ahmad Moballeghi, a prominent scholar and intellectual from the Seminary of Qom, introduced the *Forty Hadith* book and specifically chose one hadith from the book to elaborate on. The full recording of Professor Ahmad Moballeghi’s speech is available for interested individuals at the following Button:
Event’s Code: 002
Date: May 21, 2024
This academic meeting, held on May 21, 2024, both in-person and online at the House of Iranian Wisdom in Vienna, featured speeches by Dr. Sharif Lakzaei, a faculty member at the Islamic Sciences and Culture Academy in Qom, and Dr. Reza Gholami, a faculty member at the Institute for Humanities and Cultural Studies. The full recording of Dr. Sharif Lakzaei’s speech is available for interested individuals at the following Button:
Event’s Code: 001
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The House of Wisdom of Iranians in Vienna is an intellectual, philosophical, and scientific circle without borders, formed through the collaboration of a number of Iranian scholars residing in Austria, along with the support of European (particularly Austrian) scientists and thinkers. Its purpose is to engage in discussions, dialogues, and philosophical and scientific critiques.
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