Discuss the central ethical idea in African philosophy and its contribution to formal schooling or
education.
One of the central ethical ideas in African philosophy is the concept of Ubuntu, which
emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all people and things. According to
Metz (2007), Ubuntu can be defined as "the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects
all humanity and necessitates that one behaves in a manner that reflects this bond" (p. 2). This
philosophy emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility, and
it has significant implications for formal schooling and education in Africa.
One of the key contributions of Ubuntu to formal schooling is its emphasis on community and
social relationships. In African societies, education has traditionally been viewed as a communal
responsibility, with the entire community sharing in the responsibility for the education and
upbringing of young people. According to Wiredu (1996), "The education of an individual in
traditional African societies is the business of the entire community" (p. 53). This approach to
education emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility and highlights the
interconnectedness of individuals within the community.
, Another contribution of Ubuntu to formal schooling is its emphasis on the development of
moral character. In African philosophy, education is not just about the acquisition of knowledge
and skills, but also about the development of ethical and moral values. As Gyekye (1996) notes,
"The aim of education in Africa is to produce people of good character, people who are morally
upright, socially responsible, and useful members of the community" (p. 58). This approach to
education emphasizes the importance of character development and encourages students to
become responsible and ethical members of their communities.
Furthermore, Ubuntu has significant implications for the curriculum and pedagogy in African
schools. In contrast to Western models of education that prioritize individual achievement and
competition, African education emphasizes cooperation, collaboration, and group work.
According to Njoroge and Bennaars (2009), "African education emphasizes the importance of
community building, collaboration, and cooperation, as opposed to competition and
individualism" (p. 97). This approach to education emphasizes the importance of working
together towards a common goal and highlights the interconnectedness of individuals within
the community.
In conclusion, Ubuntu is a central ethical idea in African philosophy that emphasizes the
importance of interconnectedness, social responsibility, and moral character. This philosophy
has significant implications for formal schooling and education in Africa, emphasizing the
importance of community, cooperation, and character development. By incorporating these
values into the curriculum and pedagogy of African schools, educators can help students
develop into responsible and ethical members of their communities, contributing to the
development of a more just and equitable society.
References: Gyekye, K. (1996). African cultural values: An introduction. Sankofa Publishing
Company. Metz, T. (2007). Ubuntu as a moral theory and human rights in South Africa. African
Human Rights Law Journal, 7(2), 532-559. Njoroge, N. J., & Bennaars, G. A. (2009). African
education: Its significance, problems, and prospects. Routledge. Wiredu, K. (1996). Cultural
universals and particulars: An African perspective. Indiana University Press
QUESTION 2
According to Higgs and Letseka (2022), “In education, Empiricism insists that teaching and learning can
only occur in those subjects that provide humankind with ‘real knowledge’. What is your opinion on
this statement?
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