29 March 2011, Tuesday - Singapore Management University

The panel aimed to bring to our attention the importance of the media in developing a sense of understanding and respect for the varying values and dynamics of our modern society which cherishes as many differences as commonalities.

Three panelists; Professor Jon Pahl, The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, USA; Professor Radhi al-Mabuk, University of Northern Iowa, USA; Associate Professor Kirpal Singh, Singapore Management University discussed issues related to the following questions: What do we mean by values, and what is the role of the media in the modern society’s relation to them? What is “sacred space” and how valid is it in a secular society? Can we talk about universal human values? Do values like forgiveness, freedom, or human rights mean the same all over the globe or do they have nuances across cultures and countries? In what ways do these values help us in our effort to understand the meaning of this life and the human condition? What are the responsibilities of the media in transforming, reviving, or wasting values?

The panel was organized by Turkish Cultural Centre and Singapore Management University and sponsored by Fountain Magazine. Two hundred people participated the panel and some very good questions were raised.