In my previous article, I delineated key considerations for navigating the knowledge economy and creative industries. In this expanded discussion, I delve into the crucial aspects of creating a conscious environment and implementing cultural engineering to address cognitive and research backwardness.
Culture, as a reflection of societal dynamics, is intricately intertwined with the forces that drive growth and development. Cultural engineering, a comprehensive approach, encompasses all facets of life, inevitably giving rise to conflicts between forces of renewal and those inclined to preserve the status quo. The culmination of these conflicts shapes the general culture, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a moderate cultural geometry that mitigates extremism and refines societal conflicts.
Investing in culture, however, necessitates a foundation of knowledge awareness and a balanced educational environment. Without such infrastructure, the venture becomes akin to searching for a needle in a haystack within the world of turbans. To foster a conscious atmosphere, investment must prioritize both genders, as Sally Ride, America’s first female astronaut, aptly stated: “If we want scientists and engineers in the future, we must invest as much in girls as we do in boys.”
Awareness industry infrastructure is paramount for creating a conscious environment, leveraging modern means to stimulate education and desire. Incentives such as book access, support for attending art institutes, and participation in scientific and cultural competitions can be employed. Research grant competitions and generous support further contribute to enhanced cognitive awareness, paving the way for investors to design knowledge projects without hindrance.
Addressing the historical gap between Arabs, science, and knowledge is imperative. The historical decline, attributed to insufficient funding, neglected translation centers, and a lack of support for scientific researchers, underscores the need for a cultural engineering intervention. Statistics reveal that Arabs contribute a mere 1% of the world’s total research to global scientific endeavors.
Cultural engineering, with its ability to provide a clear chart of expected and unexpected outcomes, can effectively tackle anticipated and unforeseen risks. By channeling funding through government institutions, cultural engineering envisions solutions that prioritize support for research and scientific centers. This collective responsibility, funded by contributions from all institutions in the country, establishes the importance of science and research in the national agenda.
While some Arab nations allocate substantial resources to support extremism and underdevelopment, a mere fraction directed toward scientific research could yield significantly greater economic results. Redirecting funds to establish research institutions, foster innovations, and support young inventors could lead to breakthroughs that surpass other investments in various fields.
Creating awareness is pivotal, alongside funding efforts, to understand the needs of Arab society in the context of the knowledge economy and cultural engineering. It is not the scarcity of geniuses or scholars that plagues Arab nations but rather the dire need for individuals who champion and support the abundant talent and creators within the region.
In conclusion, the future of Arab countries lies not in a scarcity of talent but in the nurturing and support of their ideas and ambitions. Cultivating an environment that fosters innovation and supports the aspirations of young minds is essential for a brighter future in the knowledge-driven global landscape.
And to talk the rest
Author : Manahel Thabet
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