The place of phenomenology and existentialism in African society, in particular, Nigeria: a philosophical analysis

Abstract

Phenomenology and Existentialism represent an attitude or qualities that emphasize human existence, that is, the distinctive qualities of individual persons rather than man in the abstract or nature and the world in general. Phenomenology and Existentialism are closely related movements; this is because they revolt against the methods of traditional African society. However, we have a problem and the problem is that Phenomenology and Existentialism are personal and individualistic philosophy. How can it be relevant to the African society that is communal? In this work, we tried to make Phenomenology and Existentialism relevant to the African society, especially Nigeria judging from the fact that individual persons make up the community. Our method is a critical look at the works written on phenomenology and existentialism and also on Africa in order to discover the relevance in Nigeria.

Keywords: Phenomenology, Existentialism, Africa, Nigeria