I do not identify as a Westerner, nor do I aspire to be one. However, I believe that every conscious and thoughtful African, myself included, owes the West an apology. This stems from our collective and individual acceptance of a distorted view of Western culture and values. Perception shapes attitude, and I am convinced that certain reactions from Africans toward the West are influenced by misconceptions surrounding its values and actions.Historically, the West has committed significant wrongdoings, such as the transatlantic slave trade and colonial domination over Africa. While these actions profoundly impacted our history, using them as a continuing justification for negative perceptions of the West can often devolve into mere propaganda.The concept of “the West” has long been debated among scholars, often categorized into two primary frameworks: geo-cultural and socio-political.
In geo-cultural context, “the West” encompasses a specific group of countries, their cultural practices, and lifestyles shaped by geographical circumstances. This perspective aids in understanding historical narratives, fostering cultural identity and homogeneity, and simplifying complex global dynamics in comparison to other regions.
Socio-politically, “the West” represents a set of values and ideals, including reason, liberty, democracy, the rule of law, and individual rights. These ideals often serve as a framework for political discourse and the development of national identity. Many countries, particularly those in the Global South, owe a debt of gratitude to the West for providing a political model rooted in these values. For some, these principles are not merely socio-political; they are fundamentally human and divine, enabling individuals to break free from ignorance and oppressive ideologies.
Regrettably, some African nations, such as Nigeria, often find themselves at odds with Western ideals, especially regarding individuality and secularityMany Africans, raised in communal environments and influenced by religious beliefs, may perceive individuality as an act of disobedience and secularity as a rejection of faith. The pursuit of independent thought is often seen as rebellious, leading to a condemnation of those who dare to embrace these Western ideals. Such individuals may be labeled as individualists, secularists, or rationalists, facing social ostracism for their beliefs.Consequently, individuals who adopt or champion Western principles often face backlash, being viewed as betraying their heritage in favor of foreign ideologies. This perception may paint them as adversaries to societal norms and progress.
Once again, I assert that I do not wish to become Western; rather, I embrace Western ideals that I consider to be universal. While I may not fully grasp the nuances of individuality and secularity as defined by the West, I understand their essential aspects and advocate for them.The depiction of the West as an individualist society is accurate despite any counter-narratives from Africa. To me, being an individualist means being independent and accountable for one’s own life choices, embodying the maturity of adulthood rather than infancy. Individuality entails making distinctions and embracing one’s unique identity, leading to a society that thrives on independent thought.
Moreover, the West represents a “literate society.” Literacy transcends basic reading and writing; it embodies a commitment to lifelong learning, essential for both personal and societal development. When I refer to a literate society, I am specifically pointing to the West as a Learning Society, an Open Society, and an Ideal Society—one that embraces the principles of learning, change, and advancement. This society is characterized by its openness to science and research, as well as its commitment to progress.
At its core, a literate society operates on the values of dialogue, reason, liberty, democracy, peace, justice, and equality. Here, every member is regarded as equal, with the same opportunities and access to the cultural wealth it offers. Importantly, individuals are free to think, choose, and express themselves without fear of persecution.The essence of the West embodies these ideals. It is widely acknowledged that true learning involves a degree of solitude. Learning cannot flourish in crowds where discussions revolve around trivial matters, such as events involving violence or gossip about personal lives. It occurs in environments focused on serious discourse regarding ideas rather than fleeting narratives or social engagements.To truly learn is to embrace individuality, allowing oneself to concentrate deeply on substantial thoughts without the distractions posed by the majority. This does not imply a disdain for others; rather, it signifies a commitment to serious intellectual pursuits that warrant undivided attention. Consequently, effective time management becomes paramount for individuals in this society. They prioritize discussions that elevate understanding over casual interactions.
Moreover, the concept of secularity is seen as an extension of this openness—a willingness to engage with the broader human experience rather than limiting oneself to immediate surroundings. Contrary to some misconceptions, secularism does not equate to a rejection of spirituality; rather, it involves a commitment to altruism, extending care beyond national boundaries and embracing the well-being of humanity as a whole. A secular society transcends the notion of national security, focusing instead on human security and well-being irrespective of geographical divisions. It prioritizes the love and support of diverse individuals over mere self-interest. This is the essence of the West: a dedication to the welfare of people globally, actively providing aid and support based on need rather than identity markers such as belief systems, culture, race, or socio-economic status. Furthermore, with advancements in science and technology, ignorance has become a choice. The West champions access to knowledge through an abundance of free resources—books, articles, podcasts, and videos—available at our fingertips, facilitated by a simple internet connection.
In summary, secularism exemplifies a departure from insular thinking towards a more expansive worldview. The West stands as an open society defined not merely by geographical boundaries or collective beliefs but by universal values of truth, love, freedom, justice, and dialogue. To be a Westerner encompasses an experience that transcends religion, ideology, gender, race, or nationality, emphasizing the development of human consciousness in a fundamentally inclusive manner.