PHENOMENOLOGICAL ONTOLOGY AS THE BASIS FOR SOCIAL INTEGRATION

Abstract

This paper was inspired by Jim Unah’s ontology of inclusion. He believes that Philosophy should point the way in search of social integration and peaceful co-existence. In his view, the aspect of philosophy that is best suited for this task is ontology, from a phenomenological perspective. This is on account of its ability to inclusively reach deep down to the ontological essence of man, beyond the particularities of race, colour, gender, religion or culture. This is why it is able to overcome the dangers of a monistic, exclusivistic and reductionistic metaphysical thinking that engenders violence in human relationships and societies. Ontology, in this inclusive way, helps us to overcome the menace of injustice, insecurity, terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, ethnic clashes and wars. This paper is significant for nation building and peaceful coexistence. It argues the position that ontology of inclusion, is a strong basis for social integration and peaceful coexistence. The paper undertakes its task in three parts: First, it interrogates human ontology and the metaphysical thinking that disposes man to intolerance and violence. It terminates by establishing what makes phenomenological ontology suitable for the attainment of social integration and peaceful coexistence.