EXAMINING THE CARTESIAN FOUNDATIONALIST REFUTATIONS OF AFRICAN EPISTEMOLOGY

Abstract

Western epistemology is presented foundationally as the epitome of epistemic systems and the Cartesian foundationalist epistemology is at the heart of this epitomic Wepistemology. Whatever mode of knowing that seemingly deviates from it becomes an epistemology without foundations and does not worth the name. African epistemology, as a result, is viewed from the Cartesian foundationalist epistemic prism and adjudged to be a cultural mode of knowing fraught with unphilosophical features such as emotions, particularism, mysteries, lack of methodology and subjectivism. African mode of knowing is therefore a foundationless epistemic system and cannot provide the absolute cognitive certainty that characterizes objective human knowledge. The major problem that this research presents is to determine what kind of knowledge system that benefits humanity while seeking epistemic certainty, without undermining objectivity. Using the method of philosophical analysis, this research argues that Cartesian foundationalist epistemology narrows the matrix of human knowledge while seeking an airtight brand of knowledge. It further argues that such knowledge is so conservative that it breeds a closed epistemic system devoid of the dynamism that knowledge systems need. Following from the above complexities, the research concludes that African epistemology rather than being judged with alien paradigms should be appreciated for its dynamic and liberal nature with its diversified methodologies. This owes to the fact it promotes dialogue and collaboration with other disciplines for the purpose of a more holistic problem solving.