Reframing the Practice of Philosophy: Bodies of Color, Bodies of Knowledge

Reflections by leading Latin American and African American philosophers on their identity within the field of philosophy.
This daring and bold book is the first to create a textual space where African American and Latin American philosophers voice the complex range of their philosophical and meta-philosophical concerns, approaches, and visions. The voices within this book protest and theorize from their own standpoints, delineating the specific existential, philosophical, and professional problems they face as minority philosophical voices.
“If the ‘imperialist route’ of philosophy, with its alienation, marginalization, tokenization, and oppressive practices against bodies of color is failing us, George Yancy’s compilation of insightful essays disclosing the ways in which African American and Latino philosophers survive, intervene in, and reframe philosophy does not fail. From deeply personal explorations of their lived experience in the midst of hegemonic practices of North American philosophy to analyses of the danger of canon formation and gatekeeping, to discussions of the importance of the role of geography and language in philosophical discourse, these philosophers help us envision a more inclusive and integrated philosophical field. Yancy dedicates the work to philosophers of color not yet born. Indeed, this anthology will inspire present and future philosophers of color—yet, this is a must read for all philosophers, as we would all benefit from a nonimperialist vision and practice of philosophy.” — Mariana Ortega, coeditor of Constructing the Nation: A Race and Nationalism Reader
“This extremely important volume of essays by a group of distinguished Black and Latino philosophers addresses a long-standing tradition in the discipline of ignoring many rather pressing concerns regarding race and social justice. Its existence is a clear sign that much-needed change is underway.” — Tommy Lott, San José State University
“The voices of people of color are marginalized in academic philosophy. Some other disciplines in the humanities have been more successful in addressing this problem. Reframing the Practice of Philosophy brings together a diverse group of philosophers to examine this important issue. They use personal insights and their philosophical skills to help readers understand what it means to be a person of color in the so-called ‘Queen of all Sciences.’” — Howard McGary, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey