A Radical Reimagining of Ethiopia’s Future Rooted in Its Past

For over six decades, Ethiopia has faced political unrest, economic stagnation, and deep ethnic divisions. Philosopher Maimire Mennasemay reveals the core issue: the loss of epistemic autonomy — abandoning Ethiopia’s rich intellectual traditions in favor of Western frameworks that obscure its true emancipatory potential.

Drawing on the ancient art of Qine hermeneutics, symbolized by Sem ena Worq (wax and gold), Mennasemay uncovers Surplus History (Sewre Tarik): the hidden ideas, struggles, and aspirations embedded in Ethiopia's social fabric. From peasant revolts in Gojjam to the sharp critiques of Debteras, this recovered history offers new paths to dismantle the "triple domination" — political, economic, and epistemic forces suffocating Ethiopian society.

More than just scholarship, Surplus History & Emancipation is a rallying call for Ethiopians to become the “thinkers and architects” of their own destiny. Combining rigorous analysis with poetic insight, it charts a glorious journey toward collective flourishing.

Perfect for scholars, activists, and those envisioning a decolonial future.

Discover 36 essential Qine concepts like Arnet (emancipation) and Yewel (commons) that offer a framework for self-governance beyond Western models. Challenge "Gibbonism" — the colonial mindset that treats Ethiopia as a blank slate. Imagine a democracy that transcends ethnic politics and centers on collective wellbeing. Embrace Ethioperspectivism, a powerful fusion of Ethiopian and global perspectives reclaiming Ethiopia’s rightful place in world history.

Preface i

Part I — The Qiné Hermeneutical Roots of Surplus History

1 Introduction 

2 Surplus history and qiné hermeneutical concepts 

3 Qiné hermeneutical reading strategies and surplus history 

Part II — Surplus History and its Implications

4 Surplus history / Säwrä tarik 

5 Surplus history and arnät 

6 Surplus history and minab 

7 Surplus history and Gibbonism 

8 Surplus history and the modern educated Ethiopian 

9 Surplus history, civil society, and poor living 

10 Surplus history, hizb, agär, and federalism 

11 Surplus history and the Zära Yacob Syndrome 

12 Surplus history and becoming Ethiopian 

13 Conclusion: Surplus history and epistemic autonomy 

Glossary 

Index 

Select Bibliography 

Maimire Mennasemay (PhD) has taught critical theory, world views, and ethics in the Humanities/Philosophy Department of Dawson College. He is currently a scholar in residence at the same institution. He is a founding and still active member of S.P.A.C.E: an academic project committed to developing trans-disciplinary activities that articulate the sciences, philosophy, the Humanities, and the Arts. He was the book review editor of Labour, Capital and Society / Travail, Capital et Société for a number of years and still is a member of its editorial team. He was also a member of the editorial staff of the former Horn of Africa, and is currently a senior editor of the International Journal of Ethiopian Studies. His Publications are in the area of Ethiopian Studies, hermeneutics and critical theory. He has authored Language, Theory, and African Emancipation (University of Liverpool) and published in the Canadian Journal of Modern African Studies, North East African Studies, Horn of Africa, International Journal of Ethiopian Studies, and Africa Today. He has contributed chapters to edited books.