Oscillating Realities: Exploring The Parallels Between Ubuntu Philosophy and Metamodernism

Abstract

This paper explores the ontological parallels between Ubuntu philosophy and metamodernism, focusing on the shared emphasis on the dynamic and relational nature of being. Ubuntu, the foundation of African philosophy, is analysed through Mogobe Ramose's linguistic examination, revealing its inherent plurality and processual nature. Metamodernism, characterised by its oscillation between modern and postmodern modes of thought, similarly embraces a synthesis of contrasting perspectives. This paper argues that the fusion of these two philosophies offers a potent framework for understanding and navigating contemporary cultural production and lived experiences.

Keywords

Ubuntu Philosophy, Metamodernism, Ontology, Relationality, Processual Nature, Cultural Production, Epistemology, African Philosophy, Oscillation, Dynamic Being, Communal Validation, Plurality, Modernism, Postmodernism, Synthesis, Interconnectedness, Restorative Justice, Participatory Art, Social Justice, Contemporary Thought

Introduction

The philosophical landscape of the 21st century is marked by a complex interplay of ideas and paradigms, where traditional boundaries between modes of thought are increasingly fluid. Two such paradigms, Ubuntu and metamodernism, though emerging from distinct cultural and historical contexts, share profound ontological resonances. Ubuntu, a cornerstone of African philosophy, emphasises the relational and processual nature of human existence. Metamodernism, a philosophical movement that has gained prominence in recent decades, navigates the tensions between modernism and postmodernism through a dynamic oscillation of ideas. This paper aims to elucidate the parallels between these two philosophies, demonstrating their relevance to contemporary cultural and intellectual discourse.

Ubuntu Philosophy: An Ontological Foundation

Ubuntu, often encapsulated in the maxim "umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu" (a person is a person through other persons), forms the bedrock of African epistemology and ontology. Mogobe Ramose’s rigorous linguistic analysis of the term breaks it down into "ubu-ntu," where "ubu-" signifies the process of becoming, and "-ntu" represents the nodal point at which being assumes concrete form. This dynamic conception of human existence underscores the continual unfolding of being within a communal context.

Ramose argues that Ubuntu encapsulates both individual and communal existence, validating the individual's humanity through their interactions with others. This perspective aligns with African communal values, where personal identity and well-being are intrinsically linked to the community's health and harmony. Ubuntu is not merely a static attribute but an ongoing process of affirming and realising one's humanity through ethical engagement with others. For instance, in traditional African societies, communal rituals and practices are designed to reinforce this interconnectedness, illustrating how individual actions contribute to and are validated by the collective.

Metamodernism: Oscillation and Synthesis

Metamodernism, emerging in the late 20th century, is characterised by its oscillation between modernist and postmodernist paradigms. This movement seeks to reconcile the earnestness of modernism with the irony of postmodernism, creating a synthesis that embraces complexity and ambiguity. Vermeulen and Van den Akker describe metamodernism as oscillating between commitment and detachment, reflecting a "both/and" rather than an "either/or" approach.

Tomáš Veselý’s thesis elaborates on this synthesis, identifying "metaxy" (oscillation) as a defining feature of metamodern thought, which integrates various stages of the modern discourse. Metamodernism does not reject the past but incorporates elements of both modernism and postmodernism to address contemporary issues. This is evident in cultural productions that blend sincere engagement with ironic detachment, such as contemporary art and literature that simultaneously critique and celebrate aspects of modern life.

Ontological Parallels: Becoming and Relationality

The ontological parallels between Ubuntu and metamodernism are most evident in their shared emphasis on becoming and relationality. Ubuntu's processual nature aligns with metamodernism’s oscillatory synthesis, where the fluidity of being is a central tenet. Both philosophies reject static definitions of reality, favouring instead a dynamic interplay of forces and perspectives.

In Ubuntu, the concept of "umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu" highlights the relational nature of being, where individual identity is continually shaped and reshaped through interactions with others. This mirrors the metamodernist view that reality is constructed through a continuous process of negotiation and reinterpretation. Metamodernism’s approach to realism and anti-realism, where realness is understood as a contrastive term defined by its opposites, further aligns with Ubuntu’s validation of individual humanity through communal recognition.

For example, in contemporary African communities, the practice of restorative justice exemplifies Ubuntu’s relational ontology. Rather than focusing solely on punishment, restorative justice seeks to heal relationships and restore communal harmony, recognising that individual and collective well-being are interconnected. Similarly, metamodernist art often blends elements of pastiche and sincerity, creating works that engage with contemporary issues while acknowledging their historical and cultural contexts.

Implications for Contemporary Cultural Production

The synthesis of Ubuntu and metamodernism provides a potent framework for contemporary cultural production. This integrated perspective encourages a holistic approach that values both individual expression and communal validation. In the arts and humanities, this can manifest as works that navigate between personal introspection and social commentary, embodying the dynamic interplay of identity and community.

For instance, the rise of participatory art projects, where artists engage with communities to create collaborative works, reflects the fusion of Ubuntu’s communal ethos with metamodernism’s oscillatory perspective. These projects often address social issues while fostering a sense of shared humanity and collective responsibility. Additionally, in literature, authors may explore themes of identity and belonging through narratives that blend personal and communal experiences, highlighting the interconnectedness of individual and collective destinies.

Furthermore, this philosophical fusion can inform approaches to social and political issues, advocating for policies and practices that recognise the interconnectedness of all human beings. In the realm of social justice, for example, initiatives that promote inclusive dialogue and community-based solutions resonate with the principles of both Ubuntu and metamodernism. By acknowledging the complexity of contemporary challenges and embracing diverse perspectives, these approaches foster a more equitable and compassionate society.

Conclusion

The exploration of ontological parallels between Ubuntu and metamodernism reveals a rich tapestry of ideas that resonate deeply with contemporary cultural and intellectual currents. Both philosophies emphasise the dynamic, relational nature of being, offering valuable insights into the complexities of human existence. By synthesising these perspectives, we can develop a more nuanced understanding of our lived experiences and cultural productions, fostering a more inclusive and interconnected world. This paper underscores the importance of integrating diverse philosophical traditions to address the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

References

• Ramose, M. B. (2002). The philosophy of Ubuntu and Ubuntu in philosophy. In P. H. Coetzee & A. P. J. Roux (Eds.), The African Philosophy Reader (pp. 230-238). Routledge.

• Vermeulen, T., & Van den Akker, R. (2010). Notes on metamodernism. Journal of Aesthetics & Culture, 2(1), 5677.

• Veselý, T. (2013). We Are All Metamoderns: An Introduction to Metamodernism (Master’s thesis). University of Amsterdam