Description
Book SynopsisThis book offers a philosophical interpretation and critical analysis of the African cultural experience in modern times. In their attempt to evolve ways of life appropriate to our modern world culture, says Kwame Gyekye, African people and societies face a number of challenges, some stemming from the values and practices of their traditional cultures, and others representing the legacy of European colonialism. Defending the cross-cultural applicability of philosophical concepts developed in Western culture, Kwame Gyekye attempts to show the usefulness of such concepts in addressing a wide range of specifically African problems. Among the issues he considers are: economic development, nation-building, the evolution of viable and appropriate democratic political institutions, the development of appropriate and credible ideologies, political corruption, and the crumbling of traditional moral standards in the wake of rapid social change. Throughout, Gyekye challenges the notion that moder
Trade ReviewDr. Gyekye makes wonderfully illuminating contribution to theoretical debates, while also having acute remarks to make on their practical political implications. Moreover this book contains a penetrating discussion of African culture. It is a genuinely exciting book. * Alasdair MacIntyre, Duke University *
Gyekye makes wonderfully illuminating contributions to theoretical debate, while also having acute remarks to make on their practical political implications. Moreover, this book contains a penetrating discussion of African culture. It is a genuinely exciting achievement. * Alasdair MacIntyre, Duke University *
I find this an excellent work on a topic which has been generally overlooked in the historiography of Africa. Not only does the author discuss philosophies of Africa, but how these philosophies in terms of traditions must compete in a changing world. * Sundiata A.K.M. Djata, Northern Illinois University *
An excellent text and ueful in a variety of courses. It combines traditional African ideas with modern concepts very effectively. * Dennis Brutus, University of Pittsburgh *
