African humanism: Meaning, challenges, and prospects

A talk given by Dr Blessing Chapfika at the Institute of Applied Ethics, University of Hull, on Wed, Apr 6, 2022 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM BST

Abstract:

African humanism, one of the touchstones of African philosophy, upholds the sanctity of life and therefore places humanity at the centre of our beliefs and practices. African humanism finds expression in the philosophy of ubuntu (personhood), which has become one of the flagships of African philosophy. African humanism emphasises that the self is embedded in the community such that the self fully realizes herself in her relationship with others. John S. Mbiti, an African philosopher and theologian, coined the African humanist dictum “I am because we are, and since we are, therefore I am” as the cardinal point of being human. In this presentation, I define African humanism, particularly the philosophy of ubuntu, expose its conceptual and cultural challenges, and reignite its prospects as an alternative to Western humanism. I consider the African metaphysics of corporeality as the best handle on which to grasp these issues. It is important to note that one cannot fully grasp African humanism without making reference to the other touchstones of African philosophy such as Africanisation, criticality, and dialogue.

For further information and recording, follow the Link below:

https://www.gotostage.com/channel/923cb85986064f9bb7f9be592abf994d/recording/681b0a7f798943ad8983d5fd6c22fc72/watch