
History of Philosophy: India, Africana, China
Peter Adamson teams up with Jonardon Ganeri, Chike Jeffers, and Karyn Lai to represent the philosophical traditions of ancient India, Africa and the African diaspora, and classical China. Website: www.historyofphilosophy.net.
Latest episodes

Jun 5, 2023 • 37min
HAP 125 - Phenomenal Woman - The Black Women’s Literary Renaissance
The discussion highlights the pivotal role of a senior Black woman editor in igniting a literary renaissance, showcasing influential autobiographies. Toni Morrison’s efforts in championing Black women writers reshaped the literary landscape. Delve into Maya Angelou's connections with civil rights icons and Alice Walker's womanist philosophy, illustrating their profound impact on literature. The ethics of language and its connection to life are explored, revealing the responsibility tied to storytelling. The synergy between literature and Africana philosophy, particularly through Morrison's work, rounds out this rich exploration.

May 21, 2023 • 25min
HAP 124 - Double Jeopardy - Black Feminism
The discussion dives into the unique struggles of Black women within both feminist and Black movements, emphasizing their often overlooked experiences. It critiques historical narratives and highlights key figures like Toni Cade Bambara and the Combahee River Collective. The evolution of Black feminism as an intersectional movement is explored, revealing the tensions between race and gender. Additionally, the podcast examines the relationship dynamics between Black men and women and the lasting impact of African feminist voices. It's a deep and insightful journey through identity and activism.

Apr 30, 2023 • 33min
HAP 123 - History Teaches Us - Walter Rodney
Another Caribbean thinker, Walter Rodney of Guyana, explores Africana history from a Marxist perspective.

Apr 16, 2023 • 18min
HAP 122 - A More Human Face - Steve Biko
Discover the profound impact of Steve Biko on the Black Consciousness Movement in South Africa. His activism challenged the status quo, promoting self-awareness and unity among the oppressed. Delve into Biko's philosophies on race and identity, and how his ideas continue to resonate in discussions of resistance and empowerment. His tragic fate at the hands of the Apartheid government underscores the importance of his legacy.

Apr 2, 2023 • 34min
HAP 121 - No Agreement - Fela Kuti and Wole Soyinka
The political and musical revolution of Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat, and the social critique of his cousin, the playwright Wole Soyinka.

Mar 19, 2023 • 25min
HAP 120 - Redemption Songs - Reggae and Rastafari
How the Rastafari movement grew from trends within Africana philosophy, and then passed into global popular culture in the music of Bob Marley and other reggae artists.

Mar 5, 2023 • 23min
HAP 119 - The Space Race - Afrofuturism
Sun Ra and Parliament-Funkadelic return to claim the pyramids, and Octavia Butler uses science fiction to confront the brutal past of slavery.

Feb 19, 2023 • 32min
HAP 118 - African Survivals - Abdias do Nascimento
In this engaging discussion, Abdias do Nascimento, a prominent figure in Brazilian theater and politics, introduces his powerful concept of Quilombismo, rooted in the legacy of escaped slaves. He highlights the historical significance of settlements like Palmaris in fostering early Black political organization. Nascimento delves into the harsh realities of systemic racism in Brazil, advocating for cultural unity and the importance of community in overcoming oppression. His insights on race and political identity invite listeners to rethink their understanding of Afro-Brazilian empowerment.

Feb 5, 2023 • 29min
HAP 117 - Spear of the Nation - Nelson Mandela and the ANC
The career and ideas of Nelson Mandela up to the time of his imprisonment, in the context of the founding of the African National Congress.

Jan 22, 2023 • 30min
HAP 116 - Olufemi Taiwo and Olufemi Taiwo on Cabral
Two scholars of the same name join us to shed further light on Amílcar Cabral.