The 1st Kyoto Conference 2025: Toward the Realization of a "Multi-Layered Society of Values" was successfully held
On September 23-24, 2025, The 1st Kyoto Conference 2025: Toward the Realization of a "Multilayered Society of Values" (organized by the Kyoto Institute of Philosophy) was held at the Kyoto International Conference Center. Congrès Inc. was responsible for venue setup and conference operations.
Approximately 600 participants - including philosophers, other experts, and top leaders from industry in Japan and abroad - gathered for lectures, panel discussions, roundtable sessions, and more.
What is the Kyoto Institute of Philosophy?
Founded in July 2023 by NTT Inc. and Yasuo Deguchi, Dean and Professor of Philosophy at Graduate School of Letters, Kyoto University, aims to build an international movement dedicated to realizing a "multi-layered society of values."
Professor Markus Gabriel of the University of Bonn serves as Senior Global Advisor, and numerous domestic and international corporations participate as supporting members.
Toward the Realization of a "Multilayered Society of Values"
The Kyoto Conference was conceived as a forum where researchers in the humanities - such as philosophers, who normally have little interaction with the business world - and leaders from the economic sector can come together to discuss the challenges faced by science, technology, and industry, particularly those symbolized by AI.
In his opening remarks, Jun Sawada, Executive Chairman of NTT Inc. and Co-chairperson of the Kyoto Institute of Philosophy, stated:
"We hope to create ongoing opportunities for dialogue between industry and philosophy, and to discover new value systems for the world."
In the keynote lecture that followed, Professor Yasuo Deguchi of Kyoto University and also Co-chairperson of the Institute, said:
"One mission of the Kyoto Institute of Philosophy is to propose diverse, multi-layered values and to realize a society in which those values are implemented."
Open and Dynamic Discussions in Roundtable-Style Sessions
Over the two-day program, researchers, industry leaders, religious representatives, national and local governments, and private organizations engaged in meaningful discussions on a wide range of topics - including AI, arts, culture, science and technology, governance, democracy, and the role of industry - through panel discussions, lunch sessions, roundtable sessions, and more.
Regarding conference operations, the organizers expressed their desire to "emphasize communication among participants" and to "hold roundtable-style sessions with voluntary participation."
The roundtable sessions implemented this time involved dividing the venue into separate rooms, each equipped with multiple round tables. Around 10 participants and a facilitator engaged in approximately 40 minutes of discussion at each table. To ensure that open and dynamic discussions progressed smoothly, simultaneous interpretation was provided at every table.
Although roundtable sessions are common in international conferences, establishing a system that supports simultaneous interpretation at all tables was an unprecedented undertaking even within our extensive operational experience. After thorough internal examination, we proposed venue layouts, equipment specifications, and methods for carrying out simultaneous interpretation.
With the cooperation of many individuals - including those coordinating equipment and arranging interpreters - we were able to prepare smoothly and support productive discussions during the event, making the project highly rewarding for our team.
Showcasing the Charms of Kyoto
At the welcome reception on the 22nd, a "Dinner Talk" - a discussion-based format - was organized to encourage communication among participants.
A colorful buffet featuring ingredients from Kyoto and a wide selection of Kyoto sake contributed to a warm atmosphere where natural conversations emerged, deepening interaction among attendees.
At the dinner on the 23rd, guests were served a course meal using Kyoto ingredients, along with programming designed to introduce international participants to Japanese culture. Karateka Kiyou Shimizu, silver medalist in the women's kata at the Tokyo Olympics, performed a karate demonstration, captivating the audience with her tense, dynamic movements and refined technique.
Participants from around the world also enjoyed utai (chanting) from Noh, a traditional performing art, experiencing Japanese and Kyoto culture firsthand and savoring the lingering impression with deep appreciation.
Being involved in the operation of an international conference that brings together industry and philosophy in such a significant and innovative way was deeply meaningful. Congrès Inc. extends its sincere gratitude to all partners and collaborators who made the event possible.