Product Description

This probing and engaging book is a critical guide to some of the most important issues in modern African philosophy. Bell introduces readers to the complexity of Africa, the legacy of colonialism, and the challenges of post-independence Africa, and the history and achievement of the various options in African philosophy. The book discusses African oral and written philosophical traditions, concepts of 'negritude', 'African Socialism', and 'race' and topics in international development ethics.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1156296 in Books
• Published on: 2002-04-03
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 240 pages

Review
..."this philosophy has substance, is collegial, is modest and above all is wise...Splendid! A book to think with!."
-Malcolm Ruel, recently retired from Cambridge University
"Understanding African Philosophy is a fluid, scholarly work with postmodern appeal to young researchers in African philosophy.."
-Muyiwa Falaiye and Oscar Odiboh
"For Bell, 'cross-cultural understanding' is itself an interdisciplinary project that draws on different disciplines in order to position the reader 'to see' and 'to understand' the other's world. Bell deserves credit for his appreciation of this requirement and for bringing it to our attention.."
-Segun Gbadegesin, Howard University/ Signs, 2004

From the Back Cover
Understanding African Philosophy serves as a critical guide to some of the most important issues in modern African philosophy. Richard Bell introduces readers to the complexity of Africa, the legacy of colonialism, the challenges of post independence Africa, and other recent developments in African Philosophy. Chapters discuss the value of African oral and written texts for philosophy, concepts of "negritude," "African socialism," and "race," as well as current discussions in international development ethics connected to poverty and human suffering. Two chapters are focused on moral issues related to community, justice, and civic responsibility. Bell's sensitivity to and engagement with the complications of cross-cultural understandings help non-African readers connect with African culture and thought.

About the Author
Richard H. Bell is Professor of Philosophy at the College of Wooster. He is the author of several books including Simone Weil: The Way of Justice as Compassion (1998), co-author of Seeds of the Spirit: Wisdom of the Twentieth Century (1995) and editor of Simone Weil's Philosophy of Culture (1993).