Postmodernist Diversions in African American Thought

Abstract

This article critically examines the postmodern Blackness phenomenon that seeks primacy in African American thought. Using an Afrocentric analytical approach centered on the axis of culture and history of African Americans, I argue that the postmodern Blackness phenomenon is an unfortunate and precarious turn away from relevance. In its disapproving attitude and stance on cultural identity and consciousness, the quintessential issues in political belonging and politics, postmodern Blackness behaves as an impediment in the African American quest for freedom. Among the political hazards wrought by postmodern Blackness are (a) incessant disunity among African descended peoples and (b) dependency on political actors external to the African American community who are well organized and purposeful in pursuit of their own interests. This analysis also explains that at its core, postmodernism is yet another way of expressing the individualistic ethos of the European worldview.