Description
Book SynopsisDiscusses major ideas, figures, and schools of thought in philosophy in the African context. While drawing out critical issues in the formation of African philosophy, this book focuses on scholarship and relevant debates that have made African philosophy critical to understanding the rich and complex cultural heritage of the continent.
Trade ReviewThis expanded and updated edition of Hallen's work will be a valuable asset as a highly accessible reference, not only for the undergraduate student, but also for graduates and researchers.
* Journal of Africa *
A Short History of African Philosophy is a good read for both the neophyte and the seasoned scholar; it is a helpful guide and beginning for anyone with an interest in African philosophy.
* Dialogue *
The purpose of Hallen's book is to provide professional philosophers, students, and intellectually interested laypersons with both a synopsis and analysis of the field of African philosophy, a scholarly field that is still widely ignored in the philosophical profession and still widely unknown in the public realm. He succeeds quite well in this enterprise. Vol. 43, no. 2, 2010
* Intl. Jrnl. of African Historical Studies *
Hallen's writing is consistently clear and accessible to a general reader, and his knowledge of the subject is wide-ranging, making this an excellent introduction to the vibrant and complex melange that falls withing the category of African philosophy.#71 Winter 2009/2010
-- Mikel Burley * University of Leeds *
While avowedly a short conspectus, the book as a whole is dynamized by a number of recurring debates which make their appearance in most of the chapters, giving the work an internal coherence belying its brevity and simplicity.
* Leeds African Studies Bulletin *
Provides an excellent orientation to the various approaches and issues which have emerged throughout the history of African philosophy.
* International Studies in Philosophy *
With this small book, Barry Hallen has opened up the field of African philosophy to the general public, without turning professionals off.
* Philosophy in Review *
Hallen has provided an immeasurable service to students and scholars of Africana thought by lucidly and concisely chronicling the history, development, and current issues in African philosophies.
* Choice, named Outstanding Academic Book *
Table of ContentsIntroduction
1. The Historical Perspective
2. Twentieth-Century Origins
3. Rationality as Culturally Universal
4. Rationality as Culturally Relative
5. Ethnophilosophy and Philosophical Sagacity
6. Phenomenology and Hermeneutics
7. Socialism and Marxism
8. Philosophy and Culture
9. Histories, Anthologies, Introductions to African Philosophy, Journals, and Websites
Conclusion
Bibliography
Index
