HAP 24 - Professionally Speaking - The Reaction Against Ethnophilosophy
Mar 17, 2019
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African philosopher Paulin Hountondji criticizes ethnophilosophy, pushing for a universalist approach. The podcast discusses the misrepresentation of Ethnophilosophy in academia, the reaction against it in African philosophy, and the evolution towards a more modern approach in the field.
Criticism of ethnophilosophy by African philosophers emphasizes rational evaluation over stereotypes.
The professional school advocates for a scientific perspective in African philosophy and values individual thinkers over collective philosophies.
Deep dives
Reaction Against Ethnophilosophy
The podcast delves into the reaction against Ethnophilosophy within the African philosophical landscape. It highlights how certain African philosophers, like Wiridu, challenge the misrepresentation of African traditional beliefs and practices. Wiridu emphasizes the need to evaluate African philosophy based on rational support rather than stereotypical portrayals, advocating for a more respectful and informed discussion about African philosophical thought.
Professional School and Ethno-Philosophy
The episode discusses the emergence of the professional school as a reaction against Ethno-Philosophy in African philosophical discourse. It traces the historical context, mentioning key figures like Polan Utonji, who called for a reevaluation and reorganization of African philosophy as an academic field. The professional school challenges the idea of collective philosophies in traditional African cultures, asserting that African philosophy should be based on individual thinkers and their written texts.
Importance of Science in African Philosophy
The importance of science in African philosophy is underscored by philosopher Quasi-Wierdù and others associated with the professional school. They advocate for a shift towards a scientific perspective in African philosophical discussions, prioritizing critical thinking and modern approaches. The podcast highlights how these philosophers aim to promote free and mature philosophical conversations among Africans, emphasizing the need for intellectual responsibility and a departure from ethnophilosophy's mythologized representations of African thought.