Kyoto - The 24th Annual Kyoto Prizes, Japan's highest private awards for lifetime achievement, were awarded to three North Americans on Monday, said the Inamori Foundation.

The three were recognized for their contributions to computerized problem solving; understanding how cancer cells form and grow; and developing a more peaceful world by promoting harmony among diverse cultures.

Charles Taylor, 77, professor emeritus at McGill University of Montreal, received the Arts and Philosophy award for constructing a social philosophy to promote the coexistence of diverse cultures.

''This is a work in which I have been collaborating with many others over a number of years and I am very happy to see that this essential enterprise is recognized,'' Taylor said in his speech at the award ceremony held in Kyoto.

Anthony Pawson, 56, professor at the University of Toronto, received the Basic Sciences award for his work on ''intercellular signaling that controls cellular growth and differentiation,'' with important implications for understanding and fighting cancer, diabetes, autoimmune system disorders and other diseases, according to the foundation. Pawson said in his speech, ''I would assert that we are still profoundly ignorant of the natural world, meaning that we still have the most extraordinary opportunities to discover new ways of thinking.''

Richard Karp, 73, professor at the University of California at Berkeley, won the award for Advanced Technology. His work in information science for fundamental contributions to the development of the theory of computational complexity and influence on the design of algorithms for computers to solve problems, according to the foundation.

''Because the study of algorithms coincides perfectly with my mathematical tastes and interests, it has been possible for me to contribute to society merely by doing the work that I most enjoy,'' Karp said.

Each Kyoto Prize laureate received a diploma, a 20-karat gold medal, and a cash gift of 50 million yen (500,000 dollars) in recognition of lifelong contributions to society.

The foundation was established in 1984 by Kazuo Inamori, chairman emeritus of Japanese technology company Kyocera Corp, based in Kyoto. (dpa)