World Culture Project

Culture plays a central role in global development

Published on 15 October 2012

Author(s): World Culture Project website

Type:  Project

Foundations and Mission Statement

The World Culture Project is based on the belief that culture and cultures have a central role to play in global development and human affairs and are the key to human welfare and environmental well-being in the future. The Project was initiated in 1988 to commemorate the World Decade for Cultural Development (1988-1997). It was officially designated a World Decade for Cultural Development activity by UNESCO in 1989.

For purposes of the Project, culture is defined in the holistic sense as a dynamic and organic whole or total way of life. It is concerned with the way people visualize and interpret the world, organize themselves, conduct their affairs, elevate and embellish life, and position themselves in the world.

The Project is divided into an International Component and a Canadian Component. The International Component is designed to develop the holistic concept of culture in broad, general terms, as well as apply it to a complex set of global issues and problems. The Canadian Component is designed to develop the holistic concept of Canadian culture in specific, practical terms, as well as to apply it to a similar set of Canadian issues and problems. As a case study, the Canadian Component provides an opportunity to examine the holistic concept of culture for a country that may be called upon to play a seminal role in the world of the future.

Consistent with these commitments, the Project has three main objectives:

  • To broaden and deepen knowledge and understanding of culture, cultures, and Canadian culture;
  • To examine the crucial role culture, cultures, and Canadian culture are capable of playing in the world of the future;
  • To promote interest in culture, cultures, and Canadian culture throughout the world.

These objectives are advanced through publications, presentations, and involvement in Internet and related activities.

For more see WCP website

Contact: dpaulschafer@sympatico.ca

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