ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-119-046 · ATLAS 251

Ubuntu

A Nguni concept that emphasizes personhood and humanity in relationships with others.

Explanation

A Nguni concept that emphasizes personhood and humanity in relationships with others. The self is conceived not as an isolated possession, but as a socially produced and accountable relationship.

Example

Atlas example: The self is conceived not as an isolated possession, but as a socially produced and accountable relationship.

Counterexample

Mere formal similarity lacking the relationship characteristic of Ubuntu.

Distinction

Distinguishing from community: What is decisive in Ubuntu is the specific movement—the self is not conceived as an isolated possession, but as a socially produced and accountable relationship.

Effect on thought and perception

The self is conceived not as an isolated possession, but as a socially produced and responsible relationship.

Resonance

Ubuntu renders relationship perceptible as directed change: The self is conceived not as an isolated possession, but as a socially produced and responsible relationship.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Ubuntu“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-119-046. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-119-046

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-119-046

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