Notes on the Publication of the First Dictionary of African Philosophy: Foreword
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Abstract
This paper reproduces, in full, the Foreword by General Editor, Maduabuchi Dukor, to mark the publication of the Dictionary of African Philosophy (DAF), the first specialised dictionary dedicated to this field. It reflects on the significance of this milestone—an authentic and pioneering work authored by African scholars, with contributions from over 85 academics from Nigeria and across the continent.
The Foreword situates DAF within the broader discourse on African thought, emphasising its role in preserving, systematising, and advancing the continent’s intellectual traditions. It discusses the dictionary’s objectives, key themes, and contributions, including: the existence of African philosophy and the Great Debate (1970s and 1980s); the substance, definition, and authenticity of African philosophy; periodisation of African philosophy; the distinction between African philosophy, ethnophilosophy, and African studies; philosophy as a tool for liberating Black communities; the role of UNESCO in promoting philosophy; how this dictionary aligns with UNESCO’s calls for multiculturalism, respect for diverse cultures, and epistemologies in the contemporary spirit; the birth of this dictionary following UNESCO’s World Philosophy Day 2021; logic and proverbs, signs and symbolism; the relationship between logic and African philosophy; African freedom as inherently tied to the freedom of philosophy; selection criteria for the entries; and acknowledgements.
DAF = Dukor, Maduabuchi F. (ed.). 2025. Dictionary of African Philosophy. London Academic Publishing.
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