Ubuntu: The African Philosophy About Making People More Human

Colonialism, colonial languages and foreign religions improperly magnify differences between Black Africans. A colonial view of Black Africans emphasise their diverse cultures but this has to be deconstructed. Even though there are sub-cultures, and differences in livelihoods and language groups, there are more similar than diverging values among them. Ubuntu is the foundation of these similar values. Put simply, Ubuntu is about seeing the individual through their family, community, environment and spirituality. In this chapter, we will elaborate on the Africa’s philosophy of Ubuntu, show areas where this worldview has been impacted by western colonisation and end by discussing Ubuntu’s role in reconstructing with purpose and equity. Amagesi sigomu, meaning, no one culture has right to knowledge production. Philosophies like Ubuntu should shape world affairs because they provide a more humane way of looking at the world. Ubuntu philosophy teaches us that we can not achieve our humanity when others have not.