Theories from Africa: Knowledge production in Africa from ancient to contemporary times

Elective Course

The production of knowledge has been an integral part of human history. African thinkers have been at the forefront of this process. However, Africa has often been characterized as a place without history and hence without knowledge. As a result, the production of theory and its use has often been erroneously attributed primarily or solely to Europe and North America. By focusing on African knowledge production, this course will elucidate how the world has been thought and rethought from an African perspective. In doing so the course draws examples not only from the modern period but also from the ancient and medieval periods of Africa. Students will be able to learn the content of African texts and knowledge producers throughout history. In doing so they will be able to engage with African theories and perspectives in a comprehensive and comparative manner.