Our Colonial Inheritance

Our Colonial Inheritance explores how slavery and colonialism continue to shape the present, examining the entanglements of colonial knowledge systems and infrastructures with everyday life. The title uses the term inheritance to provoke a different relationship to the past and questions what it means to inherit the (infra)structures, categories, relations, and objects of the colonial past.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 05 February 2024
Publisher: Lannoo Publishers

Our Colonial Inheritance delves into the intricate ways in which slavery and colonialism continue to shape the present, examining the profound entanglements of colonial knowledge systems and infrastructures with our daily lives. This timely publication emerges as crucial discussions unfold regarding the profound impact of the colonial past on our society and the ways in which we can engage with this historical legacy in the present. The title, "Our Colonial Inheritance," deliberately employs the term inheritance to provoke a distinct perspective on our relationship with the past. Throughout the publication, the authors engage in a thoughtful exploration of what it means to inherit the (infra)structures, categories, relationships, and even objects of the colonial past. They question the implications of such legacies and offer insights into how we can navigate and confront these bequests.

Slavery and colonialism have left a lasting imprint on the world, shaping its political, economic, and social structures. The legacy of these systems continues to be felt today, with profound consequences for individuals and communities around the globe. Our Colonial Inheritance seeks to shed light on these complex issues and explore the ways in which they continue to shape our lives.

The publication begins by examining the historical roots of slavery and colonialism, tracing their development and impact on different regions of the world. It explores the ways in which these systems were perpetuated and justified, as well as the devastating consequences they had for the people who were enslaved and colonized. The authors also examine the ways in which colonial knowledge systems and infrastructures have been embedded in our daily lives, from the language we speak to the institutions we rely on.

One of the key themes of the publication is the ways in which colonialism has created a hierarchical and unequal world. The authors argue that the legacy of colonialism has led to the perpetuation of social and economic inequalities, with marginalized communities often facing discrimination and exploitation. They also highlight the ways in which colonialism has shaped our understanding of the world, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and biases that continue to impact our interactions with others.

Another important theme of the publication is the role of education in confronting and dismantling colonialism. The authors argue that education is a powerful tool for promoting social justice and equality, and for challenging the dominant narratives that perpetuate colonialism. They suggest that educators should be aware of the colonial past and its impact on their students, and that they should work to promote a more inclusive and equitable curriculum that recognizes the diversity of the world.

The publication also explores the ways in which colonialism has impacted our cultural and artistic practices. It examines the ways in which colonialism has influenced the development of art, literature, and music, as well as the ways in which these forms of expression have been used to perpetuate colonialism and its legacy. The authors argue that cultural and artistic practices can be powerful tools for challenging and dismantling colonialism, and for promoting a more inclusive and diverse world.

In conclusion, Our Colonial Inheritance is a thought-provoking and important publication that sheds light on the complex ways in which slavery and colonialism continue to shape the present. It offers a critical analysis of the historical roots of these systems, their impact on individuals and communities, and the ways in which they continue to shape our lives. The publication also provides insights into the ways in which we can confront and dismantle colonialism, promoting social justice and equality and creating a more inclusive and diverse world.

Weight: 1526g
Dimension: 210 x 260 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789401477512