Answer to Question #195472 in Philosophy for Stephanie

Question

1. Given the complexity of Akan’s belief in destiny, do you find Kwame Gyekye’s (1995) defence of its compatibility with free will and responsibility plausible? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Akan’s philosophical thoughts focused on the destiny of a person in terms of social achievement and personal relationships, which establish networks that ensure information flow is smooth to promote communal trust. This notion is helpful in supporting social cooperation and providing a framework for resolving collective action problems. It motivates people to maintain social wellness while retaining the moral value of everyone, including the most unproductive individuals. Therefore, a person’s contribution to a community demonstrates moral worth and leads to common humanity. On the other hand, Gyekye asserts that community does not confer individualism on to a person but an individual's identity is merely a derivative of the community. A person's abilities are not sufficient for survival, so that community is necessary for the survival of the individual. Their free will and responsibility drive their actions, ascribing a definite value to the individual. Therefore, Kwame Gyekye’s (1995) defense of its compatibility with free will and responsibility plausible.