Philosopher Sandel says Saudi reforms need critical thinking to succeed

FILE PHOTO: U.S philosophy professor Michael J. Sandel receives the 2018 Princess of Asturias award for Social Sciences from Spain's King Felipe, in Oviedo, Spain October 19, 2018. REUTERS/Vincent West

DUBAI (Reuters) - Saudi authorities' willingness to promote critical thinking will determine if a reform drive launched there succeeds, American political philosopher Michael Sandel said after participating in the ultra-conservative kingdom's first-ever philosophy conference.

Sandel, a Harvard University professor described by the Times Literary Supplement as the "most important and influential living philosopher", spoke to Reuters after discussing notions of morality, justice and universal duty with Saudi students.