Friday, Sep 14, 2012
DUBAI
Venezuelan-American philosopher and filmmaker Jason Silva made a quick but inspirational stop at The Winchester School last week in Dubai to take part in a discussion session with senior students before flying to Australia to speak at the ‘Festival of Dangerous Ideas’.
Silva engaged in an hour long question and answer session where students were able to share their thoughts and ask questions regarding a number of topics.
The discussion mainly revolved around the idea of people acquiring a cosmic perspective for the future by questioning the shifts in technology that have lead to innovative and ground-breaking discoveries and accomplishments in our world today.
Students enthusiastically shared their feedback and raised follow-up questions about other topics such as conventional schooling, the importance of reading, the relationship between science and religion, and young aspirations.
Silva who was hosted by Erika Ilves and Ann Sitwell from the Human Project in Dubai, also described Dubai’s continuous innovation and growth as “unrestrained ambition.”
Silva further discussed the importance of the internet and social-media in the exchange of ideas and concepts.
He also emphasised to the students the need to take time away from technology to reflect.
“I would like to get into the mind of another,” said Silva explaining that simple things like reading a book or watching a movie allows one to step into another’s shoes.
Neiha Lasharie, a student attending grade 13 at Winchester school was inspired by Silva’s vision of the world and the number of ideas discussed at the talk.
“I can’t really pick one thing from the talk that i’ll be thinking about today when I get home, the whole talk was just amazing,” she said.
Another student from 12th Grade, Shafnaa Mohamed Kassim, president of the astronomy club said that while astronomy is her passion, Silva’s talk about different powers shaping the world has put her feelings into words.
The event was organized by Rohan Roberts, Senior Leader and Head of Professional Development at the school.
Silva’s short but stimulating micro-documentaries have gone viral online.
His talks, ideas, and performances mainly focus on the co-evolution of humans and technology.
Silva was also asked by students about two of his most watched video’s ‘The biological advantage of being awestruck,’ and ‘Radical openness’ which were played at the beginning of the event.
He explained and compared biological patterns with the rapid exponential growth rate of technological developments taking place in the world.
He also pointed out future technological possibilities and encouraged creativity among students.
At the end of the event, students were able to introduce themselves to Silva and get his autograph.
The techno-philosopher recently spoke at TEDGlobal 2012 in Edinburgh, and was a presenter on the Emmy-winning, independent cable network, Current TV which was started by former US Vice President Al Gore.
Also described as an “Idea DJ,” Silva has talked at Google, The Economist Ideas Festival, the Digital Life Design Conference in Munich, and The Singularity Summit.
The Festival of Danergous Ideas, which Silva went on to speak at after his Dubai visit, is an annual Australian event where thinkers and writers come together, presented by Sydney Opera House and St James Ethics Centre.
By Jumana Khamis Staff Reporter
Gulf News 2012. All rights reserved.
