SUMMARY: In his article, David Krasner reviews the book, Alaine L. Locke: The Biography of a Philosopher, by Leonard Harris and Charles Molesworth. Krasner begins by introducing Alain L. Locke as a pivotal African-American philosopher and author in the Harlem Renaissance Movement. He also notes that Locke earned his undergraduate and Ph.D. from Harvard and is primarily known for editing the book, The New Negro, during the Harlem Renaissance. Krasner then goes on to admire Harris and Molesworth for their description of Locke. Krasner especially appreciates the authors mentioning Locke’s philosophy of cultural reciprocity, the idea that every culture has exchangeable values. That being said, Krasner does criticize Harris and Molesworth for not discussing Locke’s influence on African-American drama, American pragmatism, or poststructuralism.
EVALUATION:
First, Krasner establishes his credibility through his description of Alain L. Locke. He lists many of Locke’s awards, works and successes, which demonstrates his in-depth research. In addition, …show more content…
Locke was a brilliant philosopher who influenced various parts of society, but sadly, few would recognize his name because African-American philosophers are rarely discussed. Throughout my academic career, I have only had a handful of classes that even dedicated a period to studying famous philosophers and their beliefs. I think the education system should acknowledge the importance of philosophy in order to enlighten students. Actually, Locke’s philosophy of cultural reciprocity highlights the role of education. Krasner explains cultural reciprocity as, “...the concept that every culture has exchangeable "value," and it is through die reciprocal exchange of ideas via education and especially the arts that democracy can nourish” (Krasner 7559). If students learned more about different cultures, especially through interactive means, I think we would become more empathetic and tolerant as a
EVALUATION:
First, Krasner establishes his credibility through his description of Alain L. Locke. He lists many of Locke’s awards, works and successes, which demonstrates his in-depth research. In addition, …show more content…
Locke was a brilliant philosopher who influenced various parts of society, but sadly, few would recognize his name because African-American philosophers are rarely discussed. Throughout my academic career, I have only had a handful of classes that even dedicated a period to studying famous philosophers and their beliefs. I think the education system should acknowledge the importance of philosophy in order to enlighten students. Actually, Locke’s philosophy of cultural reciprocity highlights the role of education. Krasner explains cultural reciprocity as, “...the concept that every culture has exchangeable "value," and it is through die reciprocal exchange of ideas via education and especially the arts that democracy can nourish” (Krasner 7559). If students learned more about different cultures, especially through interactive means, I think we would become more empathetic and tolerant as a