ESSENCE: Interdisciplinary- International Journal of Concerned African Philosophers

INTERROGATING THE MINDS OF ROBOTS

ISAAC CHIDI IGWE, PHD — 2024-07-21

This paper raises the question; do robots have minds? In its appraisal of recent ascription of intelligence to machine, the paper argues that intelligence is an attribute of a first-order mentality which only human mind possesses. Mind, in the Cartesian glance, is a conscious and thinking substance. The paper therefore examines whether robots which perform these acts have minds. While theorists like Hilary Putnam and Gilbert Ryle deny that mind (as a non-physical substance) exists, others like John Searle contend that machines can perform mental activities attributed to the mind. While opposing firstorder-mental acts to robots, we argue that robots’ actions are solely determined; thus robots lack real, spontaneous emotion and introspective capacity which are bases for moral intelligence.

THE INFLUENCE OF HUME’S CONCEPTION OF HUMAN NATURE ON HIS THEORY OF THE STATE: A CRITICAL OVERVIEW OF THE BASIS OF CIVIL SOCIETY

INYAMIGIM AUSTIN N. — 2024-07-21

David Hume's conception of human nature played a significant role in shaping his theory of the state which serves as the basis for civil society. According to Hume, human beings are inherently social creatures who are driven by self-interest and a desire for happiness. In order to achieve happiness, humans must interact with one another and form communities. This idea of human nature as social and selfinterest led Hume to develop a theory of the state that emphasized the need for government to protect individual rights and promote the common good. This research therefore will use the conceptual analytic method to breakdown concepts into components and critically analyse their implications in Hume's understanding.

ELUCIDATING THE PROBLEM OF TRANSLATION IN AFRICAN PHILOSOPHY

ETAOGHENE PAUL .POLO — 2024-08-28

The world today is marked by linguistic diversity. It has nonetheless been described as a global village. Consequently, there is a growing interest in understanding issues across cultures and languages. This has necessitated the translation of texts and thoughts into languages that can reach out to a greater number of people. The challenge, however, has been to retain the originally intended meaning in the new language into which a text is translated. The concern of this paper is to elucidate the concept of translation and the views of philosophers on the concept, with a view to understanding the problem of translation, especially as it relates to African Philosophy. Ultimately, this research establishes that the problem of translating African philosophical thought can be addressed through (a) improved capacity building of African translators, (b) better access to resources and increased collaboration between African and non-African scholars, and (c) use of a “third language” as a medium of communication, which can help bridge cultural and linguistic gaps between African and non-African philosophical thoughts

EXCAVATING THE HIDDEN CONTRIBUTIONS: DISMANTLING WHITE SUPREMACY IN THE NARRATIVE OF INVENTIONS

IGNATIUS NNAEMEKA ONWUATUEGWU PHD — 2024-07-21

This article delves into the historical narrative of inventions, which has long been dominated by white figures, perpetuating a narrative of white supremacy and erasing the contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly young Africans. The study explores the impact of white supremacy on historical discourse, the erasure of black contributions, and the commendable efforts of young Africans to unearth these hidden stories. In order to achieve the desired goal, the investigation utilized a qualitative research approach, incorporating historical analysis and critical discourse analysis to examine the dominant narrative surrounding inventions and innovation. Primary and secondary sources were scrutinised to identify patterns of bias and erasure, particularly focusing on the representation of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including young Africans. Through a thorough examination of historical records, academic literature, and media representations, the study sought to uncover instances of white supremacy shaping historical discourse and marginalisation of black contributions. Finally, the study proposed recommendations for comprehensive education reforms aimed at promoting inclusivity, challenging biases, and celebrating the diverse contributions of individuals from all racial backgrounds to innovation and progress.

VATICAN’S APPROVAL OF SAME SEX MARRIAGE AND THE RESPONSE OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN NIGERIA: AN APPRAISALON THE SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY

BENJAMIN CHUKWUNONSO NWOKOCHA — 2024-07-21

As part of reforms to make the Catholic church more welcoming to all persons, Pope Francis permitted priests to look kindly on queer couples seeking favours from God. The Vatican however, clarified that such blessings should not be conducted with any church rites that offer the impression of a marriage. This alteration in the church’s orthodox practice generated mixed reactions amongst the widespread of Catholic faithful in variousCatholic communities especially in the Catholic church in Nigeria. The announcement, in the form of a papal declaration titled “Fiducia Supplicans on the Pastoral Meaning of Blessings”, appears to overturn a 2021 ruling issued by the same office of the Vatican, the main reason why such blessings were impermissible by the Bishops conference of Nigeria on the ground that the church “cannot bless sin”. The researchers, based on the Vatican’s declaration conducted an appraisal on the response of the Catholic church in Nigeria in regards to the sacrament ofmatrimony which makes it clear that the church’s teaching on same-sex and other nontraditional relationships are barred from the sacrament of marriage and has remained unchanged.The researchers in executing the research adopted the analytical method of data analysis with the primary and secondary sources of data collection.

THE IMPERATIVENESS OF SOCIAL CONTRACT TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF STATE

IDOGA KIZITO OCHALA (PH.D.) — 2024-07-21

Social contract is a technical description of the terms and conditions of harmonious coexistence of people in an organised society - “State”. The concept of “State” describes a civic community that recognises and protects the rights of its members. State is structured into followership and leadership. Leadership characterises government. Government is an institution of State that organises its resources. State and government are assessed on the basis of development. This paper identifies a problem that certain States and governments neglect social contract to the extent that they neither give due recognition to the rights of the members nor prioritise their duty in terms of development; human and infrastructural, evident in their administrative strategies. This is typical of underdeveloped states. It argues that the governments of such States do not judiciously utilise available resources for the collective interest of the members, rather, for private interest. These problems express the people’s ignorance of social contract, the nature and purpose of state and government and moral character deficit among the people. The paper posits that social contract is indispensable for the development of state. It examines social contract in relation to development in the Nigerian state with particular reference to the Nigerian Civil War and the 2023 Presidential election. It adopts critical analysis of qualitative research methodology. It uses social contract for its theoretical framework. It recommends civic education, pragmatic implementation of social contract and inclusivity.

INSIGHTS FROM A METAPHYSICAL TOUR: FUTURE PERSPECTIVES ON HOMEGROWN TERRORISTS AND ALLIANCES WITH FOREIGN TERRORIST ORGANIZATIONS; TWENTY-THIRTY AND BEYOND

ONWUCHEKWA OKORIE (PH.D.) — 2024-07-21

The paper predicts a drastic formation of alliances between homegrown and foreign-based terrorist organizations by the year 2030 and beyond. This prediction is based on three major factors. First, the existence of mutual interest among members of several terrorist networks as exemplified by some plausible scenarios. Second, the unpredictability of human nature and third, the changing phases of technology. The alliances would help to strengthen some terrorist networks in terms of efficiency and technological knowledge. The aim of the study is to use the knowledge gathered from the analysis of the subject to predict the outcome of future social changes that are likely results of alliances between homegrown terrorists with their foreign counterparts. In addition, the remote problem of mass misery and injustice, which emanates from unjust social and economic conditions, that prepares the higher ground for terrorism is addressed in this study. The study is significant as it would help to curb the problem of terrorism and keep human beings in a saner world by being ahead of the terrorists in thought and indeed. Using a swot methodology, the study concludes that, identifying the strengths, the weaknesses, opportunities and threats to any environment facing the challenge of terrorism is vital in dealing with the social menace.

GENUINE HUMAN DEVELOPMENT: THE PLACE OF AFRICAN VALUES AND IDENTITY

CHUKWU PETER DAMIAN EZECHI, Ph.D — 2024-07-21

Value is an important component of human existence. Every human being has some values and principles which underscore his actions. In the same manner, any group or society without core values is as good as nonexistent. The present work is developed on the premise that Africa needs to re-embrace in practice and sincerity some of her distinguishing core values. The paper argues that it is only by the adoption and practice of these values, that Africa can have a genuine sense of identity and dignity in the international community. Furthermore, he who believes in nothing can also fall for anything. In this vein, Africa can launch itself on the path to authentic development by living within the ambit of these values which could serve as the foundation for its undertakings. Among others, these values include marriage, family/extended family, communalism, religiosity, solidarity, the sacredness of human life and a life of solidarity as opposed to materialism. The paper builds a logical nexus between value and identity and eventually correlates the duo as a justifiable prelude to authentic development. Finally, the work seeks to establish that the solution to most of the underdevelopment issues in Africa must come from within. It is only when Africans realize that they must take the lead in addressing the socio-economic and political issues confronting them, shall sustainable development comes to be. To achieve this, there is a need for the adoption or re-orientation of core values on the continent.

INCONSISTENCY AND LOPSIDEDNESS IN NIGERIA’S FOREIGN POLICY THRUST UNDER MILITARY REGIMES: LESSONS TO LEARN

OKAFOR, GABRIEL OGECHI Ph.D — 2024-07-21

Prior to 1999, Nigeria’s foreign policy was influenced by successive military regimes. This paper is an attempt to highlight the roles played by different military regimes towards foreign policy formulation and implementation. The paper placed strong emphasis on the inconsistent nature of the foreign policy thrust of different military heads of state in Nigeria and most importantly the gross neglect of the office of the Ministry of External Affairs by the military juntas. The paper examined the role and nature of foreign policy and actions of military heads of state such as General Yakubu Gowon, Murtala Muhammed, Olusegun Obasanjo, Muhamadu Buhari, Ibrahim Babangida, Sani Abacha and Abdusalami Abubakah. The paper adopted historical approach, and relied on secondary sources including journals, books, newspapers and policy documents. Interesting issues such as a comparison of the regime’s foreign policies and appraisal of the capacity of Foriegn Affairs Ministers were also explored. Finally, it was generally observed that, the rigidness and over-concentration of power in the hands of military heads of state and the lack of successor’s follow-up of their predecessors' policy is the major setback and the lesson to learn in this contemporary time. The paper contends that, the attainment of national development orchestrated on the platform of sound foreign policy should be guided by follow-up, i.e., successive regimes should not entirely discard the foreign policy thrust of their predecessors

NATIONAL SECURITY: JUXTAPOSING THE CARDINAL ASSUMPTIONS AND PRICIPLES OF HUMAN SECURITY AS A VERITABLE APPROACH

REV. FR. DR. JUSTIN ARINZE EGBE — 2024-07-21

The concept of human security has taken a prominent place in the security studies’ field and has established itself as a useful umbrella notion which helps to conceptualize particular political rhetoric. The main aspect of human security is considered to have changed from being state focused agenda to an individually focused agenda in security scholarship. Nevertheless, the topic of human security is quite multifaceted and demands caution when analyzed in different contexts. In this regard, it is possible to presuppose that this theory places human security issues essentially on a par with contemporary global challenges. However, the extreme alternative of the human security could be a choice between a pure realism and an ethical humanist solidarity. The cardinal assumptions of human security therefore becomes a necessary tool in the better comprehension of this important concept that is not devoid of ambiguity and criticisms.

NIGERIAN NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: A SYNERGY BETWEEN PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION AND NATIONAL ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (NEEDS)

CHUKWU PETER DAMIAN EZECHI, Ph.D — 2024-07-21

The development of a country depends on the vision the country has and the nature of machinery it puts in place for its realization. The present paper is anchored on the Nigerian national development with emphasis on the country’s philosophy of education and a major development plan of the government which was adopted in 2004: National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy – NEEDS. The NEEDS blueprint was established under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s government and it has unfortunately been abandoned by Obasanjo’s successors. The paper avers that irrespective of the fact that it is roughly 20 years ago that NEEDS was adopted as a development policy, the present Nigeria still has a lot to borrow from that socio-economic blueprint. The work condemns lack of consistency in government policies as the rationale for the abandonment of NEEDS and this is unfortunate since government generally ought to be a continuum. The paper however draws a link between NEEDS and the country’s philosophy of education. The work subsequently proffers that there is the need to reconcile the country’s philosophy of education with the ideals and values which NEEDS stand for. This could be achieved through the kind of studies and trainings offered by academic institutions, coupled with sincerity of purpose and commitment of both government and the relevant stakeholders. With the implementation of NEEDS the country would be embarking on practical economic empowerment renewal.

BALANCING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ETHICS: EXPLORING THE SYNTHESIS OF JOHN STUART MILL'S LOGIC AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS IN THE NIGERIAN WORK- PLACE

Idoniboye, Omiete — 2024-08-28

This study focuses on John Stuart Mill's Logic and Safety Protocols in the Nigerian Workplace as it examines the complex connections between ethics, artificial intelligence (AI), and workplace dynamics. The study, which draws inspiration from John Stuart Mill's consequentialist theory, attempts to reconcile ethical issues with safety protocols in settings where artificial intelligence (AI) is extensively used to evaluate applicants and students. The inclusion of safety rules in AI systems used in exam rooms is rigorously examined in this work to ensure ethical treatment and preserve the integrity of the evaluation process. It promotes a system that balances modern safety precautions with Mill's utilitarian worldview. The study emphasises the moral responsibilities of legislators, employers, and AI developers while highlighting the profound effects of AI decisions on people and society. It emphasises how crucial impartiality, openness, and fairness are in a world that is reliant on AI and is developing quickly. The paper advocates a pragmatic and moral framework for AI while adapting its methodology to the particular circumstances of Nigeria. To ethically and securely integrate AI into Nigerian workplaces, it requires a careful blending of philosophical ideas and practical safety measures when using the technology in aptitude testing and tasks.

IMPLICATIONS OF TOLERANCE ON ETHNICITY AND RELIGIONS IN AFRICA: PERSPECTIVES FROM KARL POPPER’S PHILOSOPHY

OGUNNIYI, Olayemi Jacob — 2025-01-18

One of the problems that have plagued Africa since time immemorial without any sign of leaving is the issue of tolerance. Undoubtedly, it is believed that the majority of African people are decent human beings who inherently desire to live in a tolerant society. An integral aspect of a tolerant society is people’s ability to have and promote differing viewpoints i.e. freedom of speech. However to declare such freedoms as unlimited is to give unsavoury voices a place at the table. This explains why Karl Popper’s paradox of intolerance asserted that unlimited tolerance must lead to the disappearance of tolerance. If we extend unlimited tolerance even to those who are intolerant, if we are not prepared to defend a tolerant society against the onslaught of the intolerant, then the tolerant will be destroyed including tolerance with them. While adopting historical and qualitative research methodologies, the paper argues that ethnicity and intragroup religious activities both spatially generate spill-overs and such spill-overs are exacerbated by value-frictions between and among groups. Tolerance is therefore required not to put too much weight upon such externalities. The paper submits that tolerance has to be induced and sustained among ethnic and religious groups. That the same instrumentality required for inducing tolerance is required to sustain it. Tolerance thrives best through the creation of a culture of mutual respect and civility. Thus peaceful coexistence among ethnic and religious groups in Africa is based on tolerance and tolerance subsists upon mutual respect and understanding one another differing needs.