Philosophy Tea - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Nigeria in a Globalized World - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s, Americanah (2013)

This Philosophy Tea discusses the portrayal of post-colonial Nigeria in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Americanah (2013). Driven by political instability and economic difficulties, the main characters – and lovers – Ifemelu and Obinze, seek a better life in the United States and England respectively. Returning to Nigeria they find that not only have they changed but so has Nigeria. Americanah, together with Half of a Yellow Sun (2006) and Purple Hibiscus (2003) form a loose trilogy of Nigeria after independence.

Daniel Ogden is a researcher and teacher of utopian ideas, for many years at Uppsala University and now at Mälardalen University.
Peter Wallensteen was the first holder of the Dag Hammarskjöld Chair in Peace and Conflict Research (1985-2012) and is now Senior Professor at Uppsala University.

Philosophy Teas are produced in cooperation with Uppsala University and the discussions are disseminated as podcasts by the theatre and the University.

This episode was recorded and edited at Reginateatern, which also served as the host venue for the event on 11 December 2018.

Producer: Paul Kessel

The Philosophy Tea talks were held regularly at the Regina Theatre in Uppsala from 2014 to 2021. During these well attended events – where tea, scones and jam were served – Professor Peter Wallensteen and Guest Lecturer Daniel Ogden, both of Uppsala University, discussed thinkers who have contributed to our understanding of peace and justice. In all, 40 sessions were held, of which 31 are recorded. The session were also supported by Uppsala University as part of its outreach activities.