The Problematic of Divination and Witchcraft Vis-à-vis Certitude and Skepticism in African Philosophy

Abstract

Generally, trending deliberations on divination and witchcraft cut across several domains in African Philosophy. Conceptually, however, it remains a jigsaw puzzle and problematic vis-à-vis certitude and skepticism in relation to truth claims. The reality of these concepts in traditional African societies is perennial; with tendencies in certain quarters being to dismiss charges connected to them as disprovable allegations, neither improving nor changing common beliefs and adherence to them. Circumstantially, isolated instances apropos divination and witchcraft go beyond metaphysical realms, elucidating tangible and intangible effects of this craft and attacks; despite the fact that it is wrapped in mystery. Notwithstanding, some proof of its existence can be ascertained; yet, the overriding challenge of certitude and sceptical rudiments remain an epistemological problem. Obviously, in citing instances or dimensions of divination and witchcraft in African societies, with some real and pernicious traceable effects on the physical faculties of victims and observers, this paper explores the philosophical import; taxing possible amelioration of tenets of belief and truth warranting certainty while evading skepticism. As a supernatural source of knowledge, divination and witchcraft are inseparable epistemological apprehensions. Implicitly, African epistemology as founded on defined basic tenets, endorsed concepts like knowledge; truth, validity, and rationality are inevitable. Hence, the problematic of divination and witchcraft is pertinent vis-a-vis certitude and Skepticism; it is challenging by embracing varied forms of knowledge: perceptual knowledge, common sense knowledge, advanced age knowledge, inferential knowledge, mystical knowledge, oral tradition, and holistic knowledge. This paper consents to an extent with some truth and belief claims of these practices; but raise objections apropos certitude and scepticism in epistemological spheres of influence, engaging some systematic scientific fine-tuning.