Philosophy in Africa

How can we decolonise philosophy? Its historiography can make an important contribution to this project, and it is precisely a consideration of Africa that offers approaches for a transformation on a global scale. For the examination of the continent – from ancient Egypt to West Africa and the African diaspora – raises fundamental questions about how to deal with intellectual traditions in oral societies as well as with alternative sources and philosophical practices. Likewise, ethical questions arise about the role of religion, racism and slavery in philosophy or the interpretation and appropriation of intellectual heritage. Based on the history of philosophy in Africa, Anke Graneß outlines the basics of a new historiography of philosophy in her seminal book.