The Structure of Relational-Field Metaphysics

In this chapter, I conceptualise relational-field metaphysics as an umbrella term for metaphysical theories that (a) prioritise relationship between realities and contexts of such relationships in their study of reality; (b) are African culture-inspired and developed from a common relational thread in various African worldviews; (c) centralise the concepts of relationship, context and complementation in their frameworks; (d) ground their assumptions in a truth-glut type of three-valued logic. I argue that it is a better and more fluid way of accessing being than substance-based metaphysics. I articulate and explain the intellectual and cultural backgrounds of relational thinking and other central notions that support relational-field metaphysics. I also identify and explain the three main principles that underlie relational-field metaphysics and its logical underpinning.