Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies

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Open Access
Socio-scientific progress in the African- Nigerian-Igbo society. Using Popper’s Thoughts on “Falsifiability and Progress”*
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 1999-12-12) Ekweke, Evaristus E.
Open Access
NIGERIA IN WESTERN IDEOLOGY OF DEMOCRACY: ANY POSSIBILITY OF AN AFRICAN ALTERNATIVE
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2003-03-03) Ekweke, Evaristus E.
Open Access
POPE JOHN PAUL II ON FAITH AND REASON
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2004-01-01) Ekweke, Evaristus E.
Open Access
SCIENCE, DEVELOPMENT AND POLITICS IN A GLOBALIZED AFRICA A PHILOSOPHICAL APPROACH
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2006-03-03) Ekweke, Evaristus E.
The argument is germane to say that natural science has a discipline that is both axiomatic (Popper) and progressive. Its history (Kuhn) is witness to this. That is why the same science can historically and constitutionally lend a predictive sense of progress and or development to other disciplines in the world of knowledge. It is also arguable that a perspectivisation of the above truth is possible especially in Africa and particularly Nigeria. In this case, we are no more satisfied with mere examples and emulations. Africa has to be both naturally scientific and authentically macro-development. This attitude of being progress oriented in both theory and content should inform our political mentality. Our awareness of these realities will stand us in good stead in the global comity of nations. Having set a goal for ourselves let us leave no stone inturned in getting to this goal.
Open Access
THE LANGUAGE OF PHILOSOPHY AND THE CONTRIBUTION OF SCIENCE
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi., 2009-01-05) Ekweke, Evaristus E.
The issue of language encounters philosophy analytically. Science helps in improving language and language is a category of progress in a dynamic society. Both philosophy and language give natural science a boost in its efforts towards improving on the present paradigmatic lot. Though philosophy is one epistemic whole, there are some specific aspects of philosophy upon which the study of philosophy and its language is consequent. It is the position of this paper that, although philosophy and science are epistemologically co-terminus, they are partners in progress in the development of knowledge. Language on the other hand, as a separate discipline could enlist the services of other disciplines such as philosophy and natural science.
Open Access
Religion and Moral Values in African Religion
(DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES FACULTY OF ARTS NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY, KEFFI, 2010-07-16) Utsua, Terzungwe Peter
Most human societies are governed by some set of ideas based on their moral values which are always kept at the fore front of human consideration, especially when the expectations of both the individuals and cooperate organizations that constitute the society have to do with behavioral actions which invariably make for harmonious, stable and peaceful communal life. Moral values often influenced the general conduct of the people of a given society and thrive on the fact of obedience and sanctions of recognized authorities in the society. In the case of Africa, there are great diversities in moral values, which cannot be divorced from the basic fact of different cultural orientations, historical legacies and customs. Although moral values may differ from one African society to the other, African religion may be considered to be unified in structure and identical in belief system. This paper shall examine the relationship between African Religion and Morality basis and sources of morality in African religion, some moral values in African Religion and African methods of moral sanctions
Open Access
THE TIV FAMILYHOOD, PROCREATION AND INFERTILITY
(DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES FACULTY OF ARTS NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY, KEFFI, 2011-08-12) Utsua, Terzungwe Peter
Among Africans and the Tiv of central Nigeria the chief purpose of marriage is to provide a means for the members of the family to multiply and populate their communities. When a person fails to perform this most important obligation, he is regarded as one of the most miserable members of the family and society. It is in this struggle to help childless couples realize their dream of becoming parents that scientists all over the world have been carrying out intensive researches on the subject matter. Consequently, in recent times, there has been a remarkable advancement in the achievement of science and technology regarding the fertility problem. Today, medical science has provided hope for couples by the use of suitable techniques to intervene in the problems of infertility. This paper seeks to address the Tiv concept of family hood and procreation.
Open Access
ETHNO-RELIGIOUS CONFLICTS AND POLITICAL FREEDOM IN NIGERIA: THE NASARAWA STATE EXPERIENCE
(DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES FACULTY OF ARTS NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY, KEFFI, 2013-12-05) Utsua, Terzungwe Peter
Human history generally has been history of conflicts interests and values expressed in varieties of inter and intra-ethnic, religious, class and regional conflicts etc. This school of thought was expressed by Ezeibe (2012) when he quoted Marx and Engels as saying that the history of all hitherto existing societies is the history of conflicts and struggles. Stewart (1987) shares same opinion as rightly captured that; ―conflict be it religious, ethnic or class is impossible to occur unless, there exist incompatibility between the different values, desires or the needs of the people that co-exist‖. Ethno- Religious and Inter-religious conflicts dates back to the constant upheavals which occurred between Judaism and Christianity in the 16th century AD. Each time these crisis occurred, they represented the interest of the ethnic in groups involved as well as the religion they follow. It became more prominent when Christianity rose to become a state religion in Rome during the reign of Emperor Constantine the great in 325 A.D (Ezeibe 2012).
Open Access
THE EVOLUTION OF AFRICAN INDIGENOUS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES FACULTY OF ARTS NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY, KEFFI, 2015-06-07) Utsua, Terzungwe Peter
The evolution of Science and Technology everywhere in the world including Africa is an age long phenomenon. Science is the systematic study of anything that can be examined,tested, and verified, it is one of the greatest and most influential fields of human endeavor. Technology on the other hand, is scientific knowledge that is put to practical ends. This knowledge is used in designing machinery, materials, and industrial processes, generally .known as engineering. The concern of this paper is that in recent years, a greater volume of African countries have embraced the western science and technology as a driver of development assimilating Africans science and technology as though there was nothing like that before. This work is interested in helpful materials to explore the previous African concept of science and technology. Based on its finding, it is discovered that Africans abandoned their rich indigenous science and technology which has unfolded over the centuries since the dawn of human history like the western science and technology today. The work advanced the need for Africans to revitalize their lost heritage to complement the scientific culture of the west.
Open Access
THE EVOLUTIONOF AFRICAN INDIGENOUS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES FACULTY OF ARTS NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY, KEFFI, 2015-10-12) Utsua, Terzungwe Peter
African indigenous science and technology like the western science and technology has unfolded since the dawn of human history. According to Shishima, the first evidence of tools used by African ancestors is interred in valleys across Sub-Saharan Africa. In recent years, a greater volume of African countries have embraced technology as a driver of development, example of Kenya's Vision 2030 and Rwanda's rapid Information and Computer Technology (ICT) growth (1). Shillington explains that, modern man first developed in the Great Rift Valley of Africa, the first development of tools is found there as well: The Homo habilis, residing in East Africa, developed the first tool making industry, the Olduwan, around 2.3 million BC. Homo ergaster developed the Acheulean stone tool industry, specifically hand-axes, in Africa, 1.5 million BC.
Open Access
THE LEGAL AND ETHICAL ISSUES IN THE TECHNIQUES OF BLOOD TRANSFUSION PROCEDURE
(DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES FACULTY OF ARTS NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY, KEFFI, 2016-11-10) Utsua, Terzungwe Peter
The paper examines the legal and ethical issues that may arise and the principles that should be considered in the clinic practice for the transfusion of red blood cells and plasma into adults and children. Generally, the legal and ethical principles that apply to the medical transfusion therapy are not different from those applicable to any medical interaction or intervention. The main aim of this work is attempt to maximize good health care delivery with the view of minimizing the risks and complications that may arise as a result of carelessness. Based on its finding the research recommends that, in order to avoid abuse of this very important and sensitive medical procedure, all blood and blood property should be properly screened to ascertain the blood group and Rhesus factor with potential infections before finally transfusing same into the body of the recipient
Open Access
Survival strategies of Internal Diaspora Churches in Northern Nigeria
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2017-11-11) Tama, Suleiman Samuel
This study investigates the survival strategies of Yoruba-speaking Baptist congregations in Northern Nigeria for over a century. The Yoruba members and their churches in Kaduna represent a double minority- in terms both of their ethnicity and also of their religious affiliation as Christians in the region. Yet, they stay where they are and have been able to uphold their Christian identity in an environment that seems to be hostile. The paper analyses the different coping methods and strategies that these Yoruba Baptist churches have adopted in order to survive in the northern region since their founding beginning from 1911. The recent rise of religious tensions in Northern Nigeria has forced the migration of Yoruba and other non-indigenous northerners to other places in southern Nigeria considered to be safe. This is threatening the existence of these churches. The paper argues that one way of ensuring their survival and continuous existence is for the congregations to draw their membership from a broad spectrum of Nigerian ethnic communities. This may require them to change the language of worship; a change of identity which itself may not be easy to navigate.
Open Access
SOCIO-ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN KEFFI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NASARAWA STATE
(Department of Philosphy and Ethnics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2018-04-12) Omomese, Odion Gabriel
The advent of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) is raising germane socio-ethical concerns on its impacts socially and morally on the life of those using it. Therefore, this research examined the socio-ethical implications of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State and to be able to do this, this study examine social and ethical influence of technology - their favourable impacts and potential dangers of ICTs in Keffi Local Government Area. Descriptive survey method was adopted. The population consisted of 100 respondents from two cyber café, a group of GSM phones and laptops repairers and some people who the researcher assumed to be knowledgeable in ICT. A 10-item structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The instrument was face validated and the reliability of the instrument was ascertained by testing. One hundred copies of the questionnaire were delivered to the respondents and one hundred copies were completely filled and returned. The data collected were analyses using simple percentages of the number of respondents over number of questionnaire multiplied by one hundred. The research found out that ICT has immense socio-ethical impacts on the way people used their phones, computers and other cyberspace enable gadgets in Keffi Local Government Area. It was found that ICT is a source of job creation for those with one skills other in technology and that ICT reduces the rate of youth restiveness if it benefits are properly channel. Other findings show that ICT encourages laziness and examination malpractice among young people in Keffi Local Government. It also found that the people of Keffi Local Government don‟t read neither do they understand what cyberspace privacy contents are before sharing their personal information on the internet. In the light of all this findings, the study suggests that The Nigerian Cyberspace Centre should conduct public awareness campaign on the relevancy of reading and understanding privacy terms by internet subscribers before sharing personal information on the cyberspace. In addition the study evokes the interest of national and world leaders including Nigerian leaders to harness the benefits of ICT, in other to create job opportunities for her teeming youth and underemployed population and to guarantee a safer cyber society.
Open Access
INTERROGATION OF GENDER STERIOTYPES IN THE MORAL ROLES OF TIV MEN AND WOMEN FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENTS NIGERIA
(DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES FACULTY OF ARTS NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY, KEFFI, 2018-08-03) Utsua, Terzungwe Peter
This paper evaluates the contributions of both men and women in the development of Tiv society considering their physical strength and wisdom according to gender roles. Given the physical strength and their natural endowment, the Tiv men work harder than the women. Women are so endowed with the womb, the kitchen and the cradle. This compels the women to work for longer hours than their male counterpart in order to complement each other‘s roles for the development of their families and society. The duty of the husband is to provide food, while the wife makes sure that the food is ready on the table for consumption by the family. She takes care of the entire home, cleaning the house and the environment and prepares the children for school etc. With the vital roles women play in the family, are they recognized and given their rightful place in the Tiv society? This paper examines the basic issues of gender equality in a typical Tiv society. Based on its finding, the paper recommends that customs which discriminate against women be eradicated and all impediments to girl child education in Tiv society be reviewed positively so that women can be empowered in all spheres of life including politics in order to maximize achievement of their potentials for societal development.
Open Access
MIGRATION AND MISSION IN NIGERIA
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2018-09-09) Tama, Suleiman Samuel
This article provides an historical analysis of the connection between migration and mission or the spread of Christianity in Nigeria using the Yoruba people group as a case study. The paper argues that both external and internal migrations played vital roles in the introduction and spread of Christianity in Nigeria. The consideration of the influence of migration on the spread of Christianity in Nigeria is a major contribution to the growing body of work on the role of migration on mission. Internal migration is widespread in Nigeria but its link with the spread of Christianity has had little attention. In this work, I argue that migration whether forced or voluntary has contributed to the spread of Christianity in Nigeria. Although slavery and other events such as famine and conflicts have forced Nigerians to move out of their dwelling places to new locations, they have provided major opportunities by which many people have encountered Christianity. Migration remains an important agency and non- formal method for the mission endeavour of the contemporary church.
Open Access
Ethnicity: The Challenge to Good Governance and Development In Africa
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2018-11-11) Tama, Suleiman Samuel
Different reasons have been given by scholars for the underdevelopment of African countries. One of such reasons is colonialism and the related style of governance. It has been argued that the colonizers were only interested in siphoning the resources of Africa to develop their home nations. They therefore adopted styles of governance that enabled them to achieve their purposes. However, associating the poor state of development of African countries to reasons of colonialism is no more plausible. This is because almost all of these countries have gained political independence and are self-governing. Like African countries, China, Hong Kong, India and South Korea were colonized. But after their independence, because of purposeful leadership, sheer determination and forthrightness, today, they have recorded discernable developments. While colonialism might have militated against the development of African nations in the past, this paper identifies ethnicity as a key factor today impacting negatively on good governance with resultant underdevelopment. The paper argues that multi-ethnic nature of most African nations has rich resources which could contribute to good governance if properly harnessed. The paper recognizes that today competitive ethnicity is the bane for bad governance and conflicts in some African countries. Drawing a lot from historical antecedents of ethnic challenges in Africa, the paper hinges arguments and analysis from examples and illustrations from some African countries. It also examines ways the multiple talents and capabilities that abound in multi-ethnic Africa could be utilized for its development through good governance.
Open Access
Religion as a Tool for National Integration and Development in Nigeria
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2019-01-01) Tama, Suleiman Samuel
Nigeria is a country of much diversity the most prominent of which are religious and ethnic diversities. Religious diversity has the potentials if properly harnessed can contribute immensely to the integration and development of the country. Unfortunately this is not the case. Today this factor is not only threatening the foundation of the unity of Nigeria achieved at independence, but is contributing to the underdevelopment of the country. This paper examines the intrinsic role and connection between religion and national integration and development. It argues that under normal circumstances, religion can play a far reaching role in social and economic transformation of societies. Economic activi-ties are often driven by people who for the most part are controlled by religious attitudes, beliefs, participations, practices, rituals, behaviors, etc. The paper also opines that the three main religions in Nigeria- African Traditional Religion, Islam and Christianity have some good aspects and qualities in them that can contribute to the development of Nigeria. It recommends that these good aspects can be used to enhance national integration and development.
Open Access
EXORCISM AND HEALING IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2019-01-01) Mbachirin, Abraham T.
The belief that God can still exorcise and heal is very strong in our society. There are numerous faith healing ministries and many Pentecostal Churches that take exorcism and healing as their major activity. In mainline denominations people come requesting for prayers for their various problems. There are many examples of exorcism and healing of various kinds in the Bible and many people believe that the Church must be involved in this ministry. With this in mind it is examined in this paper that exorcism and healing in the New Testament which is contained in the promise of Christ to his followers that they will be able to perform miracles. Explored in the paper is the New Testament understanding of sickness, method of healing, sicknesses, and the power employed to exorcise and heal. From the New Testament examples, exorcism and healing were not limited to believers but unbelievers were able to exorcise and heal also. All these are to help us evaluate the activities oft hose who exorcise and heal today.
Open Access
IMPACT OF VIOLENT CONFLICTS ON THE CHURCH IN NORTHERN NIGERIA FROM 1980 TO 2019
(Department of Philosophy and Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2019-01-05) Tama, Suleiman Samuel
For over two decades now Northern Nigeria has witnessed an escalation of different kinds of violent conflicts. These conflicts often take a religious dimension. They include communal, political, ethnic, and religious conflicts. Other forms of conflicts experienced in Northern Nigeria include ethno religious conflicts, herdsmen-farmers crisis, and Boko Haram attacks. This paper based on research on Baptist Churches in Kaduna, Northern Nigeria, examines the effects of these conflicts on the Christians and their churches in Northern Nigeria. It argues that the violent conflicts have impact on the church. It highlights the negative and positive impact of the conflicts on the church. It is predicted that in spite of (he challenges, the church will not die in Northern Nigeria
Open Access
African Healing Shrines & Migration
(Department of Philosophy Ethics, Nasarawa State University Keffi, 2019-01-05) Tama, Suleiman Samuel
African healing shrines are intimately related to African traditional religion as important sacred places for the provision of healing or for prayers for a specific cause. At many of them illness - both physical and mental health problems are taken care of. There is a complex and changing relations between religion and migration. Religion not only inspires, manages and benefits from migration, but the experience of migration affects religious beliefs and practices. This paper provides an analysis of the connection between African healing shrines and migration. The paper argues that because African religion and healing are closely related, there will be migration associated with healing wherever people of Africa or African descent dwell. The paper argues that both external and internal migrations play vital roles in the recreation of healing shrines in their new destinations or the visits to the shrines usually located where their religion originated from. The consideration of the relationship between migration and location of African healing shrines is a major contribution to the growing body of work on the African Healing Shrines. Both internal migration and international migrations are widespread in Nigeria and other African countries. However, their link with the African Healing Shrines has had little attention. In this work, we argue that migration whether forced or voluntary has contributed to the recreation of healing shrines.