Cultural policy: Juan Viteri Durand

Abstract

Dr. Juan Viteri Durand discusses the structuring and execution of a cultural policy, arguing that it requires a prior philosophy or concept of culture. He first expresses gratitude for being included in the series, noting the public and media interest in the topic. Viteri Durand avoids utopian suggestions for policy execution, focusing instead on defining culture. He states that culture is related to, but not limited to, artistic heritage, education, history, and native cultures. He contends that culture's common denominator is creativity, originality, and individuality. Using the example of Greek versus Roman culture, he emphasizes that imitation lacks this originality. He criticizes the Ecuadorian tendency to equate culture with intellectualism or "librismo" (bookishness), exemplified by the Casa de la Cultura. He contrasts the intellectualism of Pico de la Mirándola with the scientific investigation of Galileo Galilei, aligning true culture with the latter—the investigation of nature and reality, not just books. The ultimate goal of culture is the realization of one's own identity and individuality.