Campaign For Edutainment: Afrocentric Philosophy and Hip Hop Pedagogy as a Method For True Liberation

Thesis (Ph.D.), Washington State UniversityThe constructions of Black identity seldom come from self-identification, but are more derived from the depictions created and endorsed by Western definitions of Africa and the Diaspora. These stereotypes depict Blacks as intellectually inferior, prone to sexual deviancy, naturally criminal, and uncivilized. But what is most important is that Blacks buy into these impressions that cause systematic self-destructive tendencies such as criminality, lack of enthusiasm in education, and economic despair. In order for Black communities to be empowered so as to begin to dismantle the economic, social, political, and cultural structures built through the mis-education of Black people and others of color Afrocentric ideas and principles can be analyzed and delivered to Black communities. Afrocentric concepts can work to invigorate Black youth's enthusiasm for education, tailoring individuals and groups to take control of their agency.The implementation of current Afrocentric paradigms limits crossover between the academy and Black communities. One way to reach those who need it most is to apply Afrocentric concepts within Hip Hop culture. Since Hip Hop is the most appealing cultural characteristic of Black youth, it can become an effective medium with which to convey Afrocentric thought to the most vulnerable and important members of Black communities. Utilizing Hip Hop to engage young Blacks to change their worldviews and self-impressions via the concepts of Afrocentric thought can enact possible social change in areas oft ignored by the State.American Studies, Washington State Universit