The value of human being is extremely precious and much higher than that of oil resources, according to a social scientist. Dr. Ahmed Al-Bu Ali said that Islam attaches paramount importance to intellectual security, and the divine religion made it a major prerequisite for the security of individual, family, and society as well. He made the remarks while addressing a workshop titled "Value of human being" on the second day of the fourth family forum titled: "Naraak" (We care for you), which is being held under the aegis of Eastern Province Emir Prince Saud Bin Naif. Ali cited several verses from the Holy Qur'an that uphold the sublime value and lofty position enjoyed by human being in Islam. "Islam, which holds human intellect with high esteem, never tries to put restrictions on intelligence but it opens horizons and vistas for its free engagement. It gives utmost importance to intellectual security and considers that it is indispensable for safety and security of human life," he said, adding that security is not possible without faith and growth is impossible without guarantee against those who attempt to undermine serenity in the day today life. "It is indispensable to unify efforts and join together to ensure security in our society," he said. Ali attributed family breakup and poor bonds of attachment between father and son as the major factor that leads to intellectual deviation. "Developing the art of dialogue and establishing intimate relationship within household, highlighting Islam's moderation, and warning against deviating toward extremist ideologies are crucial while grooming children," he said, adding that there should be coordination among parents, educational institutions and civil society organizations in this respect. Noted sociologist and family education expert Dr. Jassem Al-Mutawwa presented a paper on "Art of interaction with male and female adolescents" at the forum. He drew attention to the major features of adolescence period. "While growing up, adolescents are eager to get appreciation, encouragement, proper understanding without any criticism, expression of love in a gentle manner, and developing dialogue with them from the part of parents and others," he said. According to Al-Mutawwa, youngsters make up more than 65 percent of the Arab population, which is the highest figure while comparing with other parts of the world. The four-day forum is the brainchild of Prince Sultan Center for Science and Technology (SciTech) of King Fahd University for Petroleum and Minerals with a number of sociologists and educationalists from within the Kingdom and the other GCC countries participating. The forum is aimed at boosting self-confidence of young men and women, which is crucial for relationships among family members.
