Decentring Eurocentrism:

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Authors: Simbarashe Magaisa, Nirmala Dorasamy
Cited by: 0
References: 72

Abstract

This paper critically examines the enduring Eurocentric bias within the human and social sciences (HSS) and advocates for a paradigmatic shift toward more inclusive and pluralistic epistemologies in the context of an increasingly technology-mediated global society.Grounded in a systematic conceptual analysis of scholarly literature published between 2015 and 2025, the study synthesizes interdisciplinary insights from sociology, anthropology, philosophy, and political science to explore how Eurocentrism continues to shape contemporary knowledge production.Rooted in historical patterns of Western intellectual dominance, Eurocentrism has marginalized diverse knowledge systems, thus restricting the capacity of HSS to fully engage with the complexities of the global human experience.Through thematic content analysis, the paper identifies recurring patterns of epistemic exclusion and highlights the democratizing potential of digital technologies in amplifying marginalized voices and promoting intercultural dialogue.This technological transformation presents both opportunities and imperatives for rethinking HSS curricula, methodologies, and epistemic foundations.Key findings reveal that integrating non-Western epistemologies and leveraging digital innovation can significantly enhance epistemic justice, inclusivity, and contextual relevance within global academia.Ultimately, this paper positions the human and social sciences as vital tools for cultivating global citizenship and sustainable development in the 21st century, concluding with recommendations for restructuring HSS curricula and research frameworks to support epistemological pluralism and equitable knowledge production.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Decolonial Thought and Epistemologies Feminist Epistemology and Gender Studies African cultural and philosophical studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Asian Journal of Human Services
Volume
30
Issue
1
Pages
n/a–n/a
Publication date
30 January 2026
Language
EN