Teaching Ancient Egyptian Philosophy: A Decolonising and Re-Africanisation Act
Lecture by Simphiwe Sesanti
Simphiwe Sesanti’s lecture, “Teaching Ancient Egyptian Philosophy: A Decolonising and Re-Africanisation Act,” addresses the critical need to reclaim ancient Egyptian philosophy within the philosophy of education in Africa. Sesanti argues that despite the introduction of Ubuntu philosophy into educational frameworks in post-1994 South Africa, there remains a significant omission of ancient Egyptian educational philosophy, leaving Eurocentric and Asiacentric narratives dominant.
Sesanti underscores that attributing the origins of philosophy exclusively to Greek and Asian traditions erases the historical contributions of ancient Egyptians (Kemetic tradition).
Highlighting inaccuracies by scholars such as Lefkowitz and Higs, he contests the claim that philosophy originated solely in Greece or Asia. He emphasizes how Greek philosophers like Plato and historians like Herodotus explicitly acknowledged the profound philosophical and educational contributions of ancient Egyptians.
Central to Sesanti’s argument is the assertion that ancient Egyptian philosophy was sophisticated, structured, and significantly predated Greek thought. Texts dating as early as 2500 BCE demonstrate established educational practices, including literacy, mathematics, astronomy, and moral education. Sesanti references specific ancient Egyptian documents such as the “Teachings of Ptahhotep” and instructions addressed to King Merikare, highlighting their emphasis on ethical education, specialized knowledge, and systematic learning.
The lecture also addresses the role of women in ancient Egyptian society, challenging the patriarchal biases of subsequent European scholarship that overlooked women’s leadership and equality prevalent in Kemet.
Sesanti concludes by advocating the reclamation of ancient Egyptian philosophy as a necessary act for African Renaissance, enhancing African self-confidence and historical consciousness. He positions this reclamation as essential for educators and students alike, promoting an understanding of African civilizations as foundational and historically influential in global philosophy and education.