(COMPLETE ANSWERS)
(174079)- DUE 25 July 2025
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, Question 1 (25)
1. Elaborate on the concept “ecology of knowledge” as used in the text, in your own words.
(5)
In the context of the provided text, "ecology of knowledge" refers to the idea that different ways
of knowing and different forms of knowledge should not only coexist but also be recognized as
equally valid and valuable. It challenges the historical dominance of Western epistemologies
(ways of knowing) that have often suppressed or disregarded indigenous and alternative
knowledge systems. Essentially, it advocates for a diverse and inclusive intellectual landscape
where scientific knowledge can exist alongside and learn from other forms of knowledge,
particularly those that were marginalized or deemed "inferior" during colonial times. The text
emphasizes that achieving social justice is intertwined with achieving "cognitive justice," which
necessitates this broader acceptance and integration of various knowledge ecologies.
2. Differentiate between coloniality and colonialism. (10)
The text clearly distinguishes between colonialism and coloniality:
Colonialism: This refers to the direct political and economic relations where the power
of a people or nation is under the control of a foreign colonial or imperial power. It's
about the formal, overt systems of occupation, administration, and resource extraction by
a colonizing nation over a colonized territory. The text states: "Colonialism designates
political and economic relations in which the power of a people rests on a foreign
colonial/ imperial power." Examples given in the text include the French policy of
'assimilation' and the Portuguese 'assimilados', which were direct colonial policies aimed
at cultural subjugation.
Coloniality: This concept goes beyond the formal political structures of colonialism and
refers to its institutionalized and enduring legacy. It encompasses the "colonial practices
expressed in a longstanding pattern of culture, social relations, and knowledge
production." Coloniality signifies how colonial power structures, ways of thinking, social
hierarchies, and knowledge systems continue to operate and influence societies even after
the formal end of colonial rule. It's the "continuation of a colonial worldview and lifestyle
after achieving political independence." This includes the persistence of stereotypes (e.g.,
Asian and African people as 'backward' or 'child races'), the suppression of local
histories, and the continued dominance of Western epistemologies in education and other
spheres, making formerly colonized people "oblivious to their forgotten history."
In essence, colonialism is the historical fact of foreign rule, while coloniality is the enduring
power structure and mindset inherited from that rule, deeply embedded in societal norms,
institutions, and knowledge systems.
3. Do you think it was prudent and necessary to dissolve the OAU in favour of AU?
Substantiate your answer. (10)