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