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The Role of African Traditional Religion in Shaping Moral Education: A Comparative Study with Christian Ethical Frameworks
Subject area: Science,Engineering and Technology · Area of research: African Traditional Religion
Abstract
This study explores the interplay between African Traditional Religion (ATR) and Christian ethical frameworks in shaping moral education within African schools. Through a comparative analysis, it examines how ATR?s communal values and ancestor veneration complement or contrast with Christian ethical teachings, such as the Ten Commandments and the concept of agape. The study investigates the potential for integrating both traditions into a holistic moral education framework. Findings suggest that ATR?s emphasis on community and respect for ancestors aligns with Christian virtues of love and duty, yet divergences in metaphysical assumptions require careful pedagogical negotiation. The paper proposes a culturally responsive curriculum model that incorporates both traditions to foster ethical development and religious tolerance among students.
Keywords
African Traditional Religion, Christian Ethics, Moral Education, Curriculum Development, Religious Pluralism
References
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How to cite this paper
@article{1710031,
author = {Samuel Alifa, ZHIYA, Solomon Jeruma Dennis},
title = {The Role of African Traditional Religion in Shaping Moral Education: A Comparative Study with Christian Ethical Frameworks},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2025},
volume = {9},
number = {2},
pages = {94-102},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1710031.pdf},
abstract = {This study explores the interplay between African Traditional Religion (ATR) and Christian ethical frameworks in shaping moral education within African schools. Through a comparative analysis, it examines how ATR?s communal values and ancestor veneration complement or contrast with Christian ethical teachings, such as the Ten Commandments and the concept of agape. The study investigates the potential for integrating both traditions into a holistic moral education framework. Findings suggest that ATR?s emphasis on community and respect for ancestors aligns with Christian virtues of love and duty, yet divergences in metaphysical assumptions require careful pedagogical negotiation. The paper proposes a culturally responsive curriculum model that incorporates both traditions to foster ethical development and religious tolerance among students.},
keywords = {African Traditional Religion, Christian Ethics, Moral Education, Curriculum Development, Religious Pluralism},
month = {August},
}