COMPLEMENTARY ONTOLOGICAL REFLECTION

Abstract

The question that engages one’s attention in grappling with the above problem is: following complementarism i.e. in the spirit of complementary metaphysical reflection how can one achieve authentic/concrete existence through his action? In other words the bone of contention here is how a human being can realize his authentic self through his actions in the society he lives, bearing in mind the ambivalence or the double capacity of his personal interests. Thus, this paper beings by making clear the sense in which the key concepts are used in the work. Hence, “Being” is here used to refer to human authentic existence, and the “REALISATION” of this”BEING” refers to the process of attainment of that concrete and authentic existence of the human person. Complementary Ontological Reflection on the other hand, is a metaphysical speculation from the complementary perspective as expounded by Innocent Asouzu. According to Asouzu, in complementary ontological reflection, the mind seeks to understand missing links of reality for what they are and this determines the way it relates concretely or authentically to the world. Bearing in mind that human beings are beings who live and act from their personal interests, this paper argues that except one recognizes or becomes aware of the double capacity (ambivalence nature) of one’s interests, one would find oneself performing those actions which he abhors and condemns as bad. This insight is provided by Asouzu’s complementary reflection. In doing this, such a person will not be able to realize his authentic self through his actions. More so, he becomes for removed from attaining an authentic living when he neglects his relativity and assumes a position of absoluteness. In alliance with complementary ontological reflection, the paper makes the point that, the four ways in which the mind relates to reality must be consciously employed or followed in order for one to realize his (being) authentic self through his actions. These four ways are:- 1. Seeing realities as mere fragments which can be abstracted as essences 2. Considering realities as units that can be categorized in ways that are compatible but distinct from other compatible units. 3. Relating reality to each other in the sense of co-determinacy 4. Viewing them as serving each other in view of a totality that gives them their authenticity.