Ambassador Debabrata Saha's responses to DNA on completion of 3 years of the magazine's publication

Kyiv, August 26, 2006

1. DNA is a basis of genes, that construction material, of which living substances are made of. The genetic information, necessary for creation of a cell and functioning of the whole organism, is put into DNA. In the more global sense DNA is a genetic material of a nation. What do you put into phenomenon of DNA?

The idea of comparing a society's collective memory of its past with DNA is, indeed, a very interesting - and apt - one. Just as DNA, containing the codes that are responsible for a person's organic growth, is passed on from generation to generation, with periodic mutations, a nation's DNA too - embodied in the institutions that define the 'codes' for society's functioning and growth - passes from generation to generation, with periodic mutations. In this way, like DNA, societal institutions are responsible for both continuity and change, as political, social, cultural and economic forces transform society - mostly in an evolutionary manner, but occasionally in radical ways - from millennia to millennia, from century to century, and even, from decade to decade.

2. Modern world put new questions and every day demands the more new answers. In the rush informational stream some values are obliterated, another take their place. Priceless information in one moment could turn into uninteresting facts. But the eternal valuables remain, information, which is passed on molecular level, on DNA level. What information should be preserved by the mankind and handed over to the future generations?

The values that should be preserved and passed on from generation to generation are essentially those that we regard as 'human values'. They are what distinguish us from other living creatures, and include, for example: a sense of global community; a spirit of solidarity and fraternity for all human beings; fairness and equity without distinction of race, colour, creed or gender; recognizing that the spirit of freedom is innate to man; that compassion, empathy and kindness are sentiments that we all hold dear; that, we should understand our place in the larger cosmic scheme of things and live in reasonable harmony with nature; and, that besides the present generation we have a responsibility for coming generations as well if we are not to imperil the future of mankind.

3. Magazine DNA is an instrument generating information streams. Cultivation of personality as an internal source of progress is the key element of the DNA conception. During 3 years the magazine DNA has been doing all possible for realization of its mission - popularization of the real value guiding lines of the modern society. Your wishes to the magazine DNA?

Your magazine, DNA, as part of the Ukrainian media, is an institution that helps both preserve the essential character of Ukraine, and shape the dreams and aspirations of its people for a brighter future. I know that during the three years that it has been in existence, your magazine has sought to foster the human values that I have mentioned. My very best wishes to you and to your readers.