What is 'Black' Intellect?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The word 'black' in the term 'black intellect' is a complex double entendre which refers to two different, yet complementary aspects of blackness from which intellectual discourse can operate.

 

First, it refers to an intellectual examination, interpretation, and analysis of public policies, politics, and historic events that affect the global African Diasporic or 'Black' community.

Second, it refers to the symbolism of the color itself. In color psychology, black is associated with power, elegance, and formality. 

 

• Black denotes strength and authority (i.e. black holes in astronomy & black robes for judges)

• Black is considered to be a very formal, elegant, and prestigious color (black tie dinners, black Mercedes). 

• Black gives the feeling of perspective and depth (ex. in art or photography, one can use a black background to make the other colors stand out.

 

Therefore, to have Black Intellect is to maintain a powerful, yet an elegantly formal intellectual examination of the world. Along with philosophical depth and political perspective of the effects on, and contributions from the African Diaspora. One does not have a Black Intellect simply by virtue of being an African American, nor by confining one's interests to issues which are specifically targeted at Black people. What is essential, however, is a holistic analysis unconfined by doctrinal pronouncements, philosophical dogma, or academic disciplinary silos. Truly, all issues are Black issues and Black issues affect all.