The study evaluated African philosophical perspectives on aging to determine its status as a natural biological process or an ontological condition inherent to human existence. The paper applies the Afrolongevity framework which combines African metaphysical perspectives on personhood and ancestral continuity to challenge the prevalent global perspectives that portray aging as a process of decline or disease. The aim is to create a culturally based framework which positions aging as a significant and ethical phase in life. The study employs the qualitative approach of comparative analysis to extract insights from African philosophers like Menkiti, Mbiti, and Wiredu and compares these findings with Western philosophical beliefs about aging and selfhood. The findings suggest that African traditions present an ethical and comprehensive approach to aging which values relational bonds and societal contributions more than biological limitations. The study demonstrates how Afrolongevity acts as an essential philosophical tool for reshaping the understanding of aging which influences public health policy development, elder care practices and ethical theory construction.
Written By
Osinakachi Akuma Kalu
Afrolongevity, Johannesburg, South Africa
osinakachi@taffds.org
authorosinakachi@gmail.com
