An auspicious discussion program on ethics and morality surrounding the publication of a little mag on moral philosophy titled NEE was held on 17 January at CDIP auditorium in Dhaka with the presence of writers, teachers, journalists, artists and social workers. The topic of the discussion was the Social Need for Discussion on Moral Philosophy (Noitik Darshon Alochonar Samajik Proyojoniota). It was organized by Ebong Boi and Shikkhalok and presided over by Saleha Begum, a writer and researcher. Professor Shahidul Islam, a foremost educationist in the country, graced the program as the Chief Guest. He said, "Children learn morality form their families and also from nature. The foundation of ethics and morality is built up at the dinner table discussions in the family. Our ethical and moral sense is in a serious decline. Nature should be a source of our moral learning."

Ashraf Ahmed, a writer and Advisor of Nee, said, we have to come out of the shackles of egoism and stop regarding others, excepting oneself, as bad. He hoped that a new development path can be charted by the work of the Nee.

Khan Md. Rabiul Alam, a popular columnist and parttime teacher at ULAB, said, "Morality has two important sources besides religions, which are science and nature."

Qudrate Khoda, Assistant Professor at Independent University, projected a deep philosophical insight regarding ethics and morality into his discussion. He said, "Morality means understanding the difference between good and bad. A society without morality can be rich, but not good."

Fatihul Quadir Samrat, Chief Editor of NCTB, hoped that morality would develop in all vital sectors of the country. Without ethical and moral behavior, the country can make no progress, he said.

Poet Saikat Habib said that hunger, miseries and deprivations are so widespread in our lives that it has become hard for people to lead a decent life.

Journalist Amin Al Rashid said there is a conflict between ethics and power. Poet Emran Mahfuz put emphasis on ethical behavior in the education and media sectors.

The program was moderated by Nazneen Sathi and Reaj Mahamood, Executive Editor and a member of the Editorial Board of the Nee, respectively. Foysal Ahmed, Editor of Ebong, delivered the welcoming speech explaining the urgency and need of such a publication on the crucial question of ethics in the country.

Speakers and participants welcomed this initiative of publishing a little mag on moral philosophy in the country. They hoped it would enlighten the path forward for the nation now fumbling in moral haziness and ethical uncertainties.

The author is Editor, NEE