Artificial intelligence and the politics of knowledge: how african knowledge systems can benefit

Authors

  • Jesse Iorfaga Agede
    Department of Philosophy, Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
  • Philip Adah Idachaba
    Department of Philosophy, Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Keywords:

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Abstract

Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) create another opportunity for Western epistemological frameworks to dominate the global knowledge landscape and further marginalise diverse African Knowledge Systems (AKS). At the same time, AI has the potential to harness and amplify AKS rather than perpetuate their exclusion. Knowledge production is shaped by power relations among institutions, cultures, and nations and has historically favoured the West through colonisation and the interruption of African civilisations. This paper examines the prospective relationship between AI and AKS and its potential to promote epistemic diversity, preserve and disseminate indigenous African knowledge, and support culturally relevant technologies and a more inclusive global knowledge economy. Drawing normatively on Miranda Fricker's theory of epistemic justice, which concerns fairness in who is recognised as a knower and whose ways of knowing count as knowledge, the paper argues that a strategic integration of AI and AKS can help decolonise the politics of knowledge and open new possibilities for socio-economic development in Africa. 

Dimensions

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Published

2026-09-21

How to Cite

Artificial intelligence and the politics of knowledge: how african knowledge systems can benefit. (2026). Journal of Arts, Meaning and Public Life, 1(2), 417. https://doi.org/10.61298/jampl.2026.1.2.417

Issue

Volume 1, Issue 2, December 2026 (ongoing)

Section

Arts Section
Copyright & Licensing

How to Cite

Artificial intelligence and the politics of knowledge: how african knowledge systems can benefit. (2026). Journal of Arts, Meaning and Public Life, 1(2), 417. https://doi.org/10.61298/jampl.2026.1.2.417

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