The Akan Maxim

What is one of the challenges posed by normative theories in relation to African cultures?

The emphasis on individualism does not align with the communal nature of African cultures.

According to Mangena, where does justice reside in communitarian cultures?

Justice resides in the community, not in the individual.

How does Osikhena define dialogue in Shona society?

Dialogue involves effective communication between human persons aimed at a shared understanding of reality, including a spiritual dimension.

What are the fundamental norms and ideals to which the conduct of a human being ought to conform?

Certain fundamental norms and ideals Signup and view all the answers

Why are an individual's actions and behavior considered as falling short of the ideals and standards of personhood?

Because they do not conform to the moral virtues that an individual has the capacity to display in his conduct Signup and view all the answers

When do children attain the status of personhood?

In the fullness of time when they are able to exercise their moral capacity and make moral judgments Signup and view all the answers

What is the connection between African ethics and religion?

Some scholars believe that African moral values and principles derive from religion, while others deny the religious basis of the moral systems Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of character in African ethics?

Character is considered the essence of the African moral system and is central to African ethics. Signup and view all the answers

How is character defined by Akan thinkers?

Character is defined by Akan thinkers in terms of habits, which result from a person's deeds or actions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between knowledge and action in relation to moral principles?

Knowing and accepting a moral rule is not enough; one must also be able to apply the rule to a particular situation and carry out the implications of their moral belief. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between being a human being and being a person in Akan and Yoruba thought?

In Akan and Yoruba thought, an individual can be a human being without being a person, as personhood is attained through the discharge of various obligations and the development of ethical maturity. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between morality and ethics?

Morality is the subject matter of ethics and the two terms can be used interchangeably. Signup and view all the answers

What are the core elements of the morality of a society?

The core elements of the morality of a society are the moral principles and values that guide and influence the lives of the people. Signup and view all the answers

How do moral principles and rules apply to different human societies?

Moral principles and rules may emerge from or evolve within a particular human society, but they can apply to all human societies as they respond to basic human needs, interests, and purposes. Signup and view all the answers

What are some African words for ethics and morality?

Some African words for ethics and morality include 'Onni suban' in Akan language, 'nonomo mele si o' in Ewe language, 'iwa' in Yoruba language, 'agwa' in Igbo language, 'tsika' in Shona language, and 'maemo' in Sotho language. Signup and view all the answers

What is spirituality in the context of African religion?

A heightened form of religiosity reached by certain individuals who have mystical contacts with the supernatural or divine. Signup and view all the answers

How are 'spiritual messages' received in traditional African religion?

They are received by practitioners, but they are too few and far between to form a coherent ethical system. Signup and view all the answers

How is the moral character of 'spiritual messages' judged in a non-revealed religious context?

It is judged by the people themselves based on their own moral insights. Signup and view all the answers

According to African ethics, how is good and evil determined?

Good is determined by actions or behavior patterns that promote social well-being, while evil is determined by actions or behavior patterns that detract from social well-being. Signup and view all the answers

What does individualistic ethics focus on?

The welfare and interests of the individual. Signup and view all the answers

According to African moral thought, where does the well-being of man depend on?

His fellow man. Signup and view all the answers

Why is cooperation with other human beings important for fulfilling the needs and goals of the individual?

Because the individual requires the succor and relationships of others in order to satisfy his basic needs. Signup and view all the answers

According to African ethical conceptions, how are all human beings related?

All human beings are considered brothers. Signup and view all the answers

What virtues are associated with the idea of brotherhood in African cultures?

Hospitality, generosity, concern for others, and communal feeling. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main intent of the Akan maxim 'In human flesh there is no edge of cultivation—no boundary'?

To emphasize the worth and value of a human being. Signup and view all the answers

What is the common good according to African ethical conceptions?

The common good refers to what is essentially good for human beings as a whole, including peace, security, freedom, dignity, respect, justice, equality, and satisfaction. Signup and view all the answers