The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast Ep. 379: Egyptian Philosophy with Chike Jeffers (Part One)
Nov 10, 2025
G.K. (Chike) Jeffers, a philosopher and expert in Africana Philosophy, dives deep into ancient Egyptian philosophical texts. He discusses why these texts are crucial to African philosophy, emphasizing their ethical weight. Chike examines significant works including 'The Instruction of Ptahhotep' and the 'Great Hymn to the Aten,' revealing insights on justice and monotheism. He also explores the unique literary forms that shaped philosophical discussions and the enduring concept of Ma'at, merging truth and justice in ancient thought.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Africa As Birthplace Of Recorded Philosophy
- Chike Jeffers argues recorded philosophical thinking began in Africa via early writing in Egypt and Mesopotamia.
- He treats philosophy as fundamental questioning, not limited to where the word first appeared.
Instruction Texts As Moral Philosophy
- Instructional Egyptian texts resemble moral philosophy by teaching how to live and rule.
- They often embed ethical standards like Ma'at rather than reductive job tips.
Aten Hymn's Cosmopolitan Impulse
- The Great Hymn to the Aten emphasizes universal nourishment by the sun and less ethnocentrism.
- Akhenaten's religious shift suggests a cosmopolitan impulse in New Kingdom thought.
