The Notion of Vitality in African Philosophy of Religion

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Aribiah David Attoe (University of the Witwatersrand and The Conversational School of Philosophy, Nigeria) Amara Esther Chimakonam (University of Fort Hare and The Conversational School of Philosophy, Nigeria)

The Notion of Vitality in African Philosophy of Religion

Aribiah David Attoe (University of the Witwatersrand and The Conversational School of Philosophy, Nigeria), Amara Esther Chimakonam (University of Fort Hare and The Conversational School of Philosophy, Nigeria)

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English

Cambridge University Press
13 November 2025

Philosophy: metaphysics & ontology; Nature & existence of God; Tribal religions; Folklore, myths & legends

Series: Elements in Global Philosophy of Religion

Summary
Details

Since the early works of scholars like Alexis Kagame and Placide Tempels, discussions on the concept of vitality in African philosophy have acquired many dimensions. With scholars like Noah Dzobo and Thaddeus Metz projecting it as a grounding for human values and dignity, Aribiah Attoe and Yolanda Mlungwana each exploring vitalist conceptions of meaning in life, and Ada Agada approaching vitality from a proto-panpsychist/consolationist perspective. Indeed, vitality features as an important concept in African philosophy of religion. This Element contributes to the discourse on vitality in African philosophy of religion by providing a critical overview of some traditional interpretations of the concept from the Bantu, Yoruba, and Igbo religious/philosophical worldviews. Furthermore, it explores how the concept of vitality features in discussions of ethics, dignity, and meaning in life. Finally, the Element provides a critique of the concept based on the interventions of Innocent Asouzu, Metz, and Bernard Matolino.

By: Aribiah David Attoe (University of the Witwatersrand and The Conversational School of Philosophy Nigeria), Amara Esther Chimakonam (University of Fort Hare and The Conversational School of Philosophy, Nigeria)
Imprint: Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Weight: 113g
ISBN: 9781009506007
ISBN 10: 1009506005
Series: Elements in Global Philosophy of Religion
Pages: 68
Publication Date: 13 November 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active