African Philosophy in Gambia: A Contribution to Global Ethical Debates

Gambia is a small West African country known for its rich oral poetry traditions that have been passed down through generations. The analysis will draw upon qualitative textual studies of Gambian oral poetry performances and scholarly interpretations of these texts. A specific theme identified in the poetry is the concept of collective responsibility (direction), which resonates with contemporary discussions on social cohesion and community welfare. Gambian oral poetry offers unique perspectives that can enrich global ethical discourse, particularly concerning the role of communal values in societal well-being. Policy makers should consider incorporating elements from Gambian oral poetry into educational curricula to promote understanding of collective responsibility and social ethics.