African Ways of Knowing

Catalog description

This seminar explores the production of scientific, technical, and embodied knowledge about Africa. The course will focus on three broad themes covered across four units. First, we will read debates over the nature and definition of science, technology, and tradition. Is there such a thing as African science? What does it mean to decolonize African thought or culture? Second, we will examine the nature of rationality. Is reason singular or plural? Culturally-bound or universal? To what extent are witchcraft, African healing practices, and ancestor veneration “rational” practices? Third, we will explore the relationship between scientific representations, social practices, and local culture. What relationship exists between social practices and culturally shared categories of knowledge? Lastly, we will examine how diverse forms of knowledge become materialized in artistic practice and architecture on the African continent. Previous coursework on Africa is not required. History Major requirements fulfilled by this course: Advanced Non-west