Why Africa never experienced belated emergence in scientific advancements — Falola

A notable scholar in African history, Professor Toyin Falola, has cautioned that available and undeniable pieces of evidence indicate that, contrary to long-held assumptions, Africa did not experience a belated emergence into scientific advancements.
Professor Falola gave this affirmation on Monday while delivering the convocation lecture at Chrisland University, Abeokuta. Falola is the Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities and a University Distinguished Teaching Professor at the University of Texas at Austin. He is the author of numerous books and essays. He is the Series Editor of Rochester Studies in African History and the Diaspora, Series Editor of the Culture and Customs of Africa by Greenwood Press, Series Editor of Classic Authors and Texts on Africa by Africa World Press, Series Editor of Carolina Studies on Africa and the Black World, Series Editor of African History and Modernity by Palgrave-Macmillan, and Series Editor of African Identities by Cambridge University Press.

Falola, who spoke on the topic “Science and Values”, underscored Africa’s profound indigenous knowledge systems and their scientific endeavours, which spanned several millennia. For him, “these endeavours, with their diverse characteristics and varying degrees of significance, have consistently been grounded in the ethical principles of the cultures from which they originated. An extensive examination of the continent’s historical trajectory reveals a multifaceted narrative in which science and morality are intricately interwoven. This intricate interplay challenges the prevailing notion that Africa experienced a belated emergence in the realm of scientific advancements.”

Drawing from verifiable historical records, the historian told his audience that “it is imperative to direct our attention to ancient Egypt, a civilization widely celebrated for its notable contributions across diverse scientific disciplines. For instance, the construction of the pyramids represents remarkable achievements in engineering, astronomy, and mathematics, surpassing their status as mere architectural marvels. The Egyptians demonstrated a remarkable understanding of astronomy, as evidenced by their meticulous alignment with celestial bodies.

In addition, the mummification process showcased their deep comprehension of human anatomy and chemistry. Nevertheless, beyond these technical accomplishments lies a more profound foundation firmly grounded in their philosophical convictions regarding existence, mortality, and the vast expanse of the universe. The practice of mummification, as exemplified by ancient civilizations, transcended mere scientific methodology, encompassing profound spiritual dimensions. This intricate ritualistic procedure served as a testament to the profound significance of the concept of the afterlife while also embodying ethical principles centred on the preservation and reverence of the departed.

“As it extended its influence into the southern regions, the Kingdom of Mali, situated in the western expanse of Africa, experienced a remarkable period of intellectual and cultural advancement during its zenith under the esteemed governance of Mansa Musa. This era witnessed a notable proliferation of astronomical studies, mathematical pursuits, and medical practices within the kingdom’s intellectual landscape. The legendary metropolis of Timbuktu housed an extensive collection of manuscripts encompassing a wide array of scientific disciplines. These works were not solely characterized by their objective scientific nature; they exhibited a profound integration of moral teachings, communal living principles, and philosophical contemplations. This intricate fusion of elements is emblematic of the African worldview, wherein knowledge is intrinsically intertwined with its ethical ramifications.

“Another manifestation of the scientific ethos prevalent in ancient Africa is evident within the autochthonous societies dispersed throughout the continent. These societies, often mistakenly perceived as primitive, possessed profound ecological knowledge that guided their agricultural, hunting, and resource management methodologies. Their sustainable agricultural practices, comprehensive knowledge of indigenous plant and animal species, and their implementation of water conservation strategies can be attributed to their profound reverence for the natural world, an intrinsic principle deeply ingrained in their cosmological and mythological frameworks. In geographical areas like the Great Rift Valley, autochthonous communities cultivated sophisticated practises in beadwork and metallurgy, showcasing their exceptional artistry and reflecting their profound comprehension of materials and principles of physics.”

Drawing a parallel in scientific advancements, Falola stated that while Europe experienced the Renaissance, Africa was not left behind. “During Europe’s Renaissance period, marked by a resurgence in artistic, scientific, and philosophical endeavours, Africa was concurrently experiencing its distinctive advancements. The trans-Saharan trade routes buzzed with a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, serving as conduits for exchanging goods and ideas. Notably, esteemed centres of intellectual pursuits, such as Timbuktu, flourished during this era, attracting erudite scholars from diverse corners of the globe,” he stated.

He further argued that with the advent of the transatlantic slave trade, which saw the forceful movements of Africans to the New World, the creative ingenuity of Africans who made it to Europe and the rest of their destinations was visible and clearly survived. According to Falola, “Despite the horrendous nature of the slave trade, the indomitable spirit of the African people manifested itself. The transportation of African captives to the New World led to the transfer of their indigenous knowledge, thus exerting a substantial impact on agricultural practices, medical advancements, and metallurgical techniques in the Americas. For example, adopting rice cultivation techniques from West Africa played a significant role in establishing this crop in the agricultural landscape of the American South.”
Speaking further, he saluted Africa’s preservation of its cultural values and ethos while leveraging the expanding frontiers of science and technology.

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