In his work, Samuel Waje Kunhiyop addresses the distinctions between African and Western ethics, emphasizing their differing foundations and priorities. He suggests that African ethics tends to be more communal and tends to prioritize relationships within the community, social harmony, and the interconnectedness of individuals. In contrast, Western ethics often emphasizes individualism, autonomy, and rationality.
Kunhiyop argues that African ethics is deeply rooted in cultural traditions, communal values, and the importance of ancestors and the spiritual world. It focuses on how individuals relate to one another and to the community as a whole, often viewing moral values in light of their social implications and effects on collective well-being.
On the other hand, Western ethics often leans towards abstract principles, where individual rights and freedoms are central. Ethical reasoning in Western contexts may focus more on the individual decision-maker and the consequences of actions from a more detached perspective, frequently highlighting logic and formal rules.
In summary, Kunhiyop’s distinction outlines that African ethics emphasizes community and relational values, while Western ethics leans towards individualism and rational abstract principles, reflecting the different cultural and philosophical underpinnings of each tradition.