Philosophy as a tool for decolonization

We show in this paper that a number of studies have been carried out on cultural values with reference to the Yorùbá marriage system and that of the Western culture. Although previous studies have shown the differences between the Yorùbá marriage system and the Western marriage system, none has discussed the effect of colonization on the Yorùbá marriage system and the need for the redirection of our steps towards the Yorùbá cultural values and ideals. We argue that it is important, in view of the widespread venereal diseases, single parenting and juvenile pregnancies, among others, to revisit our cultural values so as to promote the ideals that are present in the Yorùbá marriage system as against what is obtainable and prevalent, not only among the westerners, but also among the contemporary Yorùbá people. We argue further that it has become imperative for the African man to think and look inward and emphasize the African philosophy in tackling moral challenges not only in Africa, but also in the world as a whole.