Philosophical Perspectives on Communalism and Morality in African Traditions

by Polycarp Ikuenobe

Overview

This book provides a philosophical analysis of the idea of communalism as a dominant philosophical theme in various African cultures. It argues that the idea of communalism, which is the basis for the now popular African saying, 'it takes a village to raise a child,' may be seen as a conceptual framework and the foundation for African ideas, values, thought and belief systems. Polycarp Ikuenobe also defends the idea of communalism against the criticisms that 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. Philosophical Perspectives on Communalism and Morality in African Traditions offers the unique and insightful argument that if communalism is properly understood and harnessed, it could provide the foundation for Africa's development.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780739114926
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	05/09/2006
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	342
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.76(d)

About the Author

Polycarp Ikuenobe is associate professor of Philosophy at Kent State University.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Methodological and Metaphilosophical Issues
Chapter 2 African Conceptions of Personhood and Community
Chapter 3 Moral Philosophy, Communalism, and Morality
Chapter 4 Oral Tradition, Narratives, and Moral Education
Chapter 5 Communalism and Epistemic Authoritarianism
Chapter 6 Moral Education, Rationality, and Indoctrination
Chapter 7 Reflections on Communalism, Responsibility, and Liberal Criticisms

Editorial Reviews

Prof. Ikuenobe is breaking important new ground with this book...it is well-written, engaging, and will appeal to a broad audience.

H. Gene Blocker

This book will stimulate much debate in African philosophy....This is an important contribution to contemporary African political philosophy.

Philosophy in Review

This book is a much-needed conceptual and pragmatic study of the existence and significance of African communalism and philosophy.

African American Review - 2007

This book will stimulate much debate in African philosophy....This is an important contribution to contemporary African political philosophy.

October 2008 Philosophy in Review

This book is a much-needed conceptual and pragmatic study of the existence and significance of African communalism and philosophy. 2007

African American Review

This book is a much-needed conceptual and pragmatic study of the existence and significance of African communalism and philosophy.

From the Publisher