This paper examines the role of philosophy within the context of Africa’s development, with a view to showing that in spite of Africa’s heterogeneous culture (Nigeria in particular), philosophy can play a critical role in their development in the 21st century. Philosophy represents a method of reflective, rational and constructive thinking, as well as a reasoned inquiry, while development designates the ability of a people to appropriate their total essence, in a total manner, as a people – a holistic vision in which they assume control of their own destiny. Attempts are made to articulate the concept of development and the essential roles of philosophy. These two will be examined critically to show how philosophy plays out regarding their interface. The paper employs the method of historical hermeneutics and textual analysis/exposition.
Development, philosophy, culture, essence, critical literacy, revaluation of values, Africa
