Afrocentricity: The Theory of Social Change

by Molefi Kete Asante

The central topic of this cross-disciplinary work is the theory of “Afrocentricity,” which mandates that Africans be viewed as subjects rather than objects; and looks at how this philosophy, ethos, and world view gives Africans a better understanding of how to interpret issues affecting their communities. History, psychology, sociology, literature, economics, and education are explored, including discussions on Washingtonianism, Garveyism, Du Bois, Malcolm X, race and identity, Marxism, and breakthrough strategies.

Genres: Nonfiction, Philosophy, Africa, History, Race, Academic, Politics

156 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1988

About the author

Molefi Kete Asante (born Arthur Lee Smith Jr.; August 14, 1942) is an American professor and philosopher. He is a leading figure in the fields of African-American studies, African studies, and communication studies. He is currently professor in the Department of Africology at Temple University, where he founded the PhD program in African-American Studies. He is president of the Molefi Kete Asante Institute for Afrocentric Studies.

Asante is known for his writings on Afrocentricity, a school of thought that has influenced the fields of sociology, intercultural communication, critical theory, political science, the history of Africa, and social work.He is the author of more than 66 books and the founding editor of the Journal of Black Studies.

Reviews

[Pres. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Much of the content in this book is very, very good. Asante gives us a blueprint for not only dismantling and disposing of the Eurocentric gaze within ourselves, but for reconstructing a new, true identity (Afrocentricity). I particularly loved his recognition that a physical revolution is not enough. Along with the economic and political, we should be as committed to a revolution of the mind and spirit. He constantly asserts the importance of respecting and learning from our ancestors, in order to build our (Black) future. Asante thinks in terms of the collective conscious, the combined will of Black folk in the Western Hemisphere. He instructs is to think of problems/solutions/plans/etc. through the question “Is it in the best interest of African peoples?” I find Asante’s Afrocentricity to be extremely relatable, practical, useful for my life (but of course I should, I am black and Afrocentricity is for Black).

Despite how much I loved 90% of the content in this book, I had to take some stars because there is a section in here that is blatantly homophobic. Asante basically points to homosexuality as a deficiency given to black men by the white, European world, and it keeps our race from being as strong as it can be. How could a man who had otherwise been so forward thinking suddenly turn so backwards?? How can he not see his homophobia is what has been inherited from the white society around him, NOT homosexuality?

As I asked those questions, I began browsing and I noticed that Brother Asante’s références/inspirations have a theme. They are largely opinions from prominent straight black male thinkers/academics/artists/etc. I believe his lack of diversity in references has led to some deficiencies in the text, namely his homophobic lapse. I read an edition from ‘88 though, so hopefully he has changed his mind since then.

Overall, I think this book is an important read for those already well-seasoned in the areas of black history, black thought and the Black leftist tradition. I would definitely warn the reader of the homophobic nature of some of this book first though. Power to ALL the People!

[Andre(Read-A-Lot) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I tend to reread this book every couple of years just to restrengthen my commitment to African-centeredness and make sure I stay in proper alignment. Molefi Asante has received criticism from all corners, yet the theory of Afrocentricy has stood the test of time and as more of us return to our center the growth of the concept will continue unabated.

[Bassmah Altaher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very innovative, as a philosophy that aims on reconstruction and peace, it surely is an experience. His style is simple, challenging, and informative. A lot to think about and research on. All in all, I loved it

[James Wilkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some interesting ideas about Afrocentricity and it's role in the modern world, however his ideas are a little convoluted and lack enough evidence to make his factual arguments more than simply hypothesis. It seems that it was written as a buffer for Eurocentric thought in parts, but in other areas it is obvious that Asante has done a huge amount of research and truly has a passion for this topic in which he lectures on at Temple University in the United States. Take a look if you are interested in Afrocentricity or eurocentricity, but do remember to take some of his chapters with a pinch of salt.

[Dizzie Mavungu · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book starts off well, but the author's views on homosexuality are outdated and hypocritical. At the beginning of the book, the author states that any form of hate, including homophobia, is unacceptable. However, later in the book, the author admits to not agreeing with or accepting homosexuality. Additionally, when discussing women's abuse, the author uses the word "devil" to describe evil, which is not an Afrocentric term. While the book has some good sections, the author's views are outdated and problematic, making it difficult to recommend.

[Rafael Suleiman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good introduction to the concept of Afrocentricity.

[Jenna J]

great book

[Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was excellent but I only read it for a class. It stretch my sanity a little to make afrology legitimate subject of study.

[Darrell · Rating 3 out of 5]

since i came up in an age of Afrocentric hip hop - i figured i should read one of the seminal texts that my favorite emcees based large parts of their albums on

[Michael Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed my life!