Global Economic Times

Paraguay Hosts the 26th International Conference on Science and Life: Discussing Challenges in the Postmodern Era: Global Economic Times Reporter / Updated : 2025-07-15 19:37:59

The 26th International Conference on Science and Life (CICV) will be held from July 24th to 26th, 2025, at the Convention Hall of the Central Bank of Paraguay, under the theme "Beyond Modernity: Expectations, Risks, and Challenges." This event is poised to be a significant academic forum, bringing together prominent national and international experts to deeply examine the challenges of a changing era.

Conference Objectives and Target Audience

This conference is aimed at all interested professionals, academics, students, legislators, religious leaders, and pastoral workers concerned with the interconnectedness of science, ethics, and society. Specifically, it seeks to reflect on the impact of technological innovation on human life and these effects within the context of a modern culture dominated by ethical relativism. It is jointly organized by the Paraguayan Medical Association (CPM) and the Association for Bioethical Studies (AEB), with the sponsorship of the Americas Free International University (ULIA).

The event's importance is further underscored by its designation as an event of national interest by the Paraguayan Senate and an event of academic interest by the Faculty of Law and Diplomacy of the Catholic University. Participants who fully attend the conference will receive a certificate recognizing 20 hours of academic activity.

Four Key Agendas: A Forum for In-Depth Discussion

This CICV will facilitate in-depth discussions focused on four main agendas to address the complex issues facing contemporary society.

1. Bioethics: Technological Innovation and Ethical Dilemmas

This section will intensively analyze the implications of rapidly advancing science and technology, such as transhumanism, robotics, and genetic engineering, on human identity and life. In particular, discussions will explore the ethical dilemmas these innovations pose in a modern society where ethical relativism is prevalent.

Transhumanism: A philosophy that seeks to augment human physical and mental capacities through science and technology, raising fundamental questions about the definition and limits of humanity. Technologies like gene editing, integration with artificial intelligence, and brain-computer interfaces could bring revolutionary changes to the human way of being, but at the same time, they give rise to various controversies such as deepening social inequality and issues of ethical responsibility.

Robotics: Robots equipped with artificial intelligence are increasingly utilized in various fields like industry, medicine, and services. However, as robot autonomy increases, complex ethical problems arise, including issues of accountability, displacement of human labor, and whether to grant them ethical decision-making capabilities.

Genetic Engineering: The advancement of CRISPR gene-editing technology has opened possibilities not only for treating diseases but also for producing 'designer babies' through human embryo editing. This triggers sharp ethical debates concerning the dignity of life, genetic diversity, and responsibility towards future generations.

2. Legal Framework: New Rights and the Dignity of Life

This section will discuss how new social rights, animal rights, and legislation related to abortion and euthanasia can conflict with and harmonize with the universal value of the dignity of life.

New Social Rights: New forms of rights are emerging in the digital age, such as privacy rights, access to information rights, and data sovereignty. Discussions will take place on situations where these rights conflict with existing legal frameworks or demand new legal interpretations.

Animal Rights: As animals are increasingly recognized not merely as property but as sentient beings capable of suffering, public awareness of animal rights has grown, leading to stronger penalties for animal cruelty and improved animal welfare. Consequently, there is active discussion on establishing legal and ethical standards for animal rights protection.

Abortion and Euthanasia: The debate over the beginning and end of life has been a long-standing challenge for humanity. Abortion and euthanasia represent points where individual autonomy and the dignity of life sharply conflict. Discussions will include various legislative cases from different countries and ethical and religious perspectives.

3. Fundamentation: The Crisis of Universalism and the Future of Democracy

This agenda provides deep insights into the crisis of universalism, the role of morality and religion in global politics, and the future of democracy.

Crisis of Universalism: In pluralistic societies that respect diversity, universal values and norms are increasingly challenged. Critical reflection will occur on the phenomenon where the concepts of universal human rights, ethics, and truth are shaken as relativistic perspectives spread.

Role of Morality and Religion in Global Politics: Since the Cold War, the influence of religious and ethical values on international relations and inter-state conflicts has grown. Analysis will be made of the impact of religious fundamentalism and moral relativism on global order, along with exploring ways for morality and religion to contribute to peace and cooperation in a diverse society.

Future of Democracy: With the development of digital technology, new factors threatening democracy have emerged, such as populism, polarization, and fake news. Amidst these challenges, discussions will redefine the essence of democracy and explore new democratic models suitable for future society.

4. Applications: Environmental Crisis, Migration, and New Development Models

The final agenda seeks solutions to practical problems, including ecological degradation, migration, nuclear energy, new ways to measure development, and the challenge of slowing economic growth.

Ecological Degradation: Global environmental problems such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion threaten human survival. Discussions will cover new technologies and policies for sustainable development, as well as the roles of individuals and society.

Migration: Global refugee and migration issues pose both a humanitarian crisis and a challenge for social integration. Discussions will cover protecting migrant rights, the social impact of migrant inflows, and international cooperation strategies.

Nuclear Energy: The debate over the role of nuclear energy as an alternative energy source to address climate change continues. Discussions will include safety issues, nuclear waste disposal, and strategies for building a harmonious energy mix with renewable energy.

New Ways to Measure Development: As GDP-centric economic growth models have led to side effects like deepening social inequality and environmental destruction, there is a growing need to develop new development indicators that encompass human quality of life and sustainability.

Challenge of Slowing Economic Growth: Faced with an era of low growth, there is criticism of existing economic models, along with discussions about new economic paradigms such as 'Degrowth.'

This 26th International Conference on Science and Life will be a crucial opportunity to comprehensively examine the ethical, social, and environmental implications brought about by the advancement of science and technology, and to seek the direction humanity should take in a rapidly changing world. It is expected that experts from various fields will come together for in-depth discussions to share wisdom and insights for a sustainable future.