Doha: The Doha Debates, an initiative of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, discussed the impact of modern architecture on cultural identity, with the participation of a group of Qatari students and a selection of international experts.
According to Qatar News Agency, this discussion took place during the second episode of the new season focused on the role of architectural art in shaping and embodying cultural values. The episode posed a central question: “Has modern architecture redefined beauty and tradition, or contributed to its decline?” The debate was moderated by media personality Dareen Abughaida.
As the debate unfolded, the experts and students grappled with the tensions between heritage and progress, local identity and global design, as well as timeless beauty versus evolving aesthetics. The conversation frequently returned to a shared conviction: architecture is never neutral. It influences how people live, the ideals they hold, and how they connect with one another.
“Beauty is never just about what we see, it’s about what we value,” said managing director of Doha Debates Amjad Atallah.