Decolonizing Existentialism and Phenomenology: The Liberation of Philosophies of Freedom and Identity

Decolonizing Existentialism and Phenomenology examines the history of decolonial existentialist and phenomenological theory to reimagine and rewrite the philosophical canon, centering the experiences of peoples of the African diaspora, gender marginalized people, and queer peoples to generate new frameworks for understanding structures of meaning and consciousness within oppressive colonial orders.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Decolonizing Existentialism and Phenomenology is a critical examination of the history of decolonial existentialist and phenomenological theory in the works of notable figures such as Simone de Beauvoir, Richard Wright, Franz Fanon, Lewis Gordon, Audre Lorde, Sylvia Wynter, and Jamaica Kincaid. Through a reimagining and rewriting of the philosophical canon, these scholars aim to challenge and redefine the dominant narratives that have shaped Western philosophical thought.

Phenomenology and existentialism are two philosophical approaches that focus on the structures of consciousness as experienced from the perspective of the subject. However, their methodologies have historically been closely associated with the subjective experiences and perspectives of White Europeans and Americans. By centering the experiences of people from the African diaspora, gender marginalized individuals, and queer communities, Africana existentialist and phenomenologist philosophers in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries have been able to develop new frameworks for understanding the structures of meaning and consciousness within oppressive colonial orders. This approach challenges the historical narratives of existentialism and phenomenology that have often ignored or marginalized social markers of identity and the experiences of social identity.

The text highlights the importance of decolonizing hegemonic discourses and structures that hinder the development of the selves and projects of colonized peoples. It argues that by challenging these dominant narratives, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world that recognizes and values the diverse experiences and perspectives of all individuals.

In conclusion, Decolonizing Existentialism and Phenomenology is a significant contribution to the field of philosophy that seeks to reimagine and rewrite the philosophical canon in order to promote greater social justice and equality. By centering the experiences of marginalized groups, these scholars have been able to develop new frameworks for understanding the structures of meaning and consciousness within oppressive colonial orders. This approach challenges the historical narratives of existentialism and phenomenology and provides a path forward for a more inclusive and equitable world.

Weight: 517g
Dimension: 236 x 158 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538178034