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Periodical article Periodical article
Title:Knowledge and Intellectual Practice in a Swahili Context: 'wisdom' and the social dimensions of knowledge
Author:Kresse, K.
Year:2009
Periodical:Africa
Volume:79
Issue:1
Pages:148-167
Geographic term:Kenya
Discipline:Anthropology & Ethnology
Subjects:Knowledge - indigenous
Swahili - culture
Mombasa
Abstract:This article investigates 'wisdom' from an ethnographic perspective that pays attention to the ways in which knowledge is performed, appreciated, negotiated and questioned in everyday life in Mombasa, on the Swahili coast (Kenya). It discusses the 'baraza' setting (daily meeting points for male social peers) as a venue for intellectual practice and the appreciation of wisdom. Basic features of communicative interaction identified there can also be found to be in play when looking at case studies of individuals and their 163 performances. The article looks at how two genres (didactic 'tenzi' poetry and Ramadhan lectures) are used by Swahili intellectuals who are regarded as exceptional in their field. Verbal, performative and social skills are found to be crucial aspects of wisdom, which also has to do with being able to engage with common social concerns in a manner that leads to further insight and intellectual orientation for others. In this sense, social responsibilities and moral obligations in the use of knowledge play an important role. Overall, the article seeks to contribute to a general discussion of wisdom, based on insights gained on the East African coast. (Source: Author Abstract)
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