"Wiredu's discussion of culturally defined values and concepts, as well as his attention to such timely issues as human rights, makes this book invaluable interdisciplinary reading." -D. A. Masolo

Ghanaian philosopher Kwasi Wiredu confronts the paradox that while Western cultures recoil from claims of universality, previously colonized peoples, seeking to redefine their identities, insist on cultural particularities. Wiredu asserts that universals, rightly conceived on the basis of our common biological identity, are not incompatible with cultural particularities and, in fact, are what make intercultural communication possible. Drawing on aspects of Akan thought that appear to diverge from Western conceptions in the areas of ethics and metaphysics, Wiredu calls for a just reappraisal of these disparities, free of thought patterns corrupted by a colonial mentality. Wiredu's exposition of the principles of African traditional philosophy is not purely theoretical; he shows how certain aspects of African political thought may be applied to the practical resolution of some of Africa's most pressing problems.

An eminent African philosopher asserts the compatibility of universal and particular values in defining cultural identities.

About the Author

KWASI WIREDU is Professor of Philosophy at the University of South Florida and former head of the Department of Philosophy at the University of Ghana. He is author of Philosophy and an African Culture.

Reviews
"This is a major endowment- from one who already has an unparalleled record in such giving- not only the tradition of modern philosophy in Africa, but to all lovers of philosophy understood as cross-cultural projects." - African Philosophy"Wiredu's discussion of culturally defined values and concepts, as well as his attention to such timely issues as human rights, makes this book invaluable interdisciplinary reading." - D. A. Masolo



Book Information
ISBN 9780253210807
Author Kwasi Wiredu
Format Paperback
Page Count 256
Imprint Indiana University Press
Publisher Indiana University Press
Weight(grams) 426g