Philosophical Perspectives on Communalism and Morality in African Traditions - by Polycarp Ikuenobe (Paperback)

About the Book

This book examines the idea of communalism in African cultures as a dominant philosophical theme that provides the conceptual foundation for African traditional moral thoughts, moral education, values, beliefs, conceptions of reality, practices, ways of life, and the now popul...

Book Synopsis

This book examines the idea of communalism in African cultures as a dominant philosophical theme that provides the conceptual foundation for African traditional moral thoughts, moral education, values, beliefs, conceptions of reality, practices, ways of life, and the now popular African saying, 'it takes a village to raise a child.' It defends communalism against various criticisms and argues that when properly understood and harnessed, it could provide the necessary foundation for Africa's development.

Review Quotes

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

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

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

About the Author

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