Philosophical perspectives on communalism and morality in African traditions / Polycarp Ikuenobe.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Ikuenobe, Polycarp, 1959-

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Philosophy, African.

Philosophy--Africa.

Philosophy.

Communalism--Africa.

Communalism.

Ethics--Africa.

Ethics.

Africa.

Physical Description:

xi, 329 pages ; 24 cm

Place of Publication:

Lanham, MD : Lexington Books, [2006]

Summary:

Philosophical Perspectives on Communalism and Morality in African Traditions provides an analysis of the idea of communalism as a dominant philosophical theme in various African cultures. Polycarp Ikuenobe argues that communalism - the basis for the now popular African saying, "It takes a village to raise a child" - may be seen a conceptual framework and foundation for African ideas, and values, and thought and belief systems. Ikuenobe also defends communalism against criticism that claims it has elements of spiritualism, anachronism, authoritarianism, lack of critical reflection, irrationality, indoctrination, and corruption. These elements, critics claim, are the fundamental problems that have impeded Africa's economic, political, and technological development. This book offers the unique and insightful argument that if communalism is properly understood and applied, it could provide the foundation for Africa's development.

Contents:

Methodological and metaphilosophical issues

African conceptions of personhood and community

Moral philosophy, communalism, and morality

Oral tradition, narratives, and moral education

Communalism and epistemic authoritarianism

Moral education, rationality, and indoctrination

Reflections on communalism, responsibility, and liberal criticisms.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 311-319) and index.

ISBN:

0739111310

0739114921

OCLC:

64591995

Publisher Number:

9780739111314

9780739114926