Mr. POLO ETAOGHENE
Publication Title Abortion and Nigeria's Abortion Provisions: An Evaluation
Publication Type journal
Publisher Journal of Intercultural Values and Indigenous Ecoethics
Publication Authors Etoaghene Paul Polo, and Olayinka Afeez Olanrewaju
Year Published 2024-07-01
Abstract So much value is ascribed to human life. This is so because life is generally regarded as a precious gift to humanity, which should be cherished and protected, as failure to cherish and protect life will bring about inevitable extinction of the entire human race. Abortion is one of the numerous contemporary issues that undermine the sanctity and value of human life; for it involves terminating a pregnancy by removing a fetus or embryo before it can survive independent of the uterus, or killing the fetus inside the uterus. The issue of abortion is highly controversial; for while some individuals permit it, some others condemn it totally, as evident in the ‘pro-life’ versus ‘pro-choice’ controversy. ‘Pro-life’ advocates condemn abortion on the grounds that it is an outright disrespect for the dignity and value of human life, and hold that there should be sustained discussions on it, so as to expose its danger and fatal consequences. ‘Pro-choice’ advocates are simply indifferent to the issue of abortion; for them, getting involved in abortion is a matter of choice for an individual - that is, one is at liberty to accept or reject abortion, so that in the final analysis, abortion should not be an issue for discussion. This article explores several arguments and bioethical concerns on abortion, approaches to the issue of abortion and Nigeria’s abortion provisions, which are evident in the Criminal and Penal Codes, respectively. Ultimately, this article recommends that beyond merely stating punishments for those involved in abortion, the following should be done: (a) Correcting the disparity between the Criminal and Penal Codes by ensuring that both Codes have the same penalty stated, or completely reducing them into a single Code that will be applied across the country, (b) Modifying the Criminal and Penal Codes by including information that will serve the purpose of educating Nigerians on the bioethical issues associated with abortion, and (c) Designating a body charged with ensuring compliance with and implementation of the abortion laws.
Publication Title An Evaluation of the Problem of Language in African Philosophy
Publication Type journal
Publisher International Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities: Africa Research Corps Network (ARCN) Journals
Publication Authors Ocheja Theophilus Attabor, and Etaoghene Paul Polo
Year Published 2023-12-01
Abstract The problem of language in African philosophy is coextensive with the question as to whether there exists an African philosophy. This is so because when the question: "what language is African philosophy to be done?" arises, it implicitly calls into question the very foundation of the discipline. Little wonder then, that the language question has remained a front-burner issue in African philosophy. Essentially, the problem of Language in African philosophy raises the question as to whether the expression of the African experience of reality in foreign languages can generate an authentically African philosophy. Put differently, the problem centers on whether or not foreign languages should be used to express African philosophical thoughts. In an attempt to address this problem, two camps have surfaced among African philosophers, namely, the conservatives and the progressives. For the conservatives, for a philosophy to be authentically African, it must be expressed in African languages. They base their argument on the fact that language is tied to culture and every culture has its peculiar conceptual framework. Consequently, to express the African experience of reality in a foreign language necessarily implicates 'conceptual superimposition.' In contrast, the progressives commit themselves to a more pragmatic approach to the question of language. They opine that the lack of a continental lingua franca in Africa legitimizes the use of foreign languages. This research therefore evaluates the position of both camps with a view to establishing the possibility and plausibility of having an authentic African philosophy in foreign languages. This is without prejudice to the significance of African languages in construing the African experience of reality. This research employs the expository, analytic, and evaluative methods.
Publication Title An Eclectic Approach to the Doctrine of Determinism
Publication Type journal
Publisher APPON Philosophical Quarterly: A Journal of the Association of Philosophy Professionals of Nigeria (APPON)
Publication Authors Etaoghene Paul Polo, and Donatus Osatofoh Ailodion
Year Published 2023-03-01
Abstract Are human beings actually free beings? The doctrine of
determinism gives a negative response to this question.
Determinism therefore claims that humans are not free to act or make choices, since they are always constrained in some way. By so doing, determinism denies human freedom and human moral responsibility. It rejects the idea that humans act freely, or that humans can be regarded as responsible for their actions and inactions. This outright denial of human freedom and human moral responsibility is certainly pregnant with several
implications, which this article is aimed at exposing. This article adopts the expository, analytic and critical methods. It begins with a clari?cation of the concept of determinism and then goes on to discuss five types of determinism, namely: (a) physical, (b)
psychological, (c) historical, (d) ethical and (e) theological
determinism, respectively. Also, this article discusses two
categories of determinism known as soft and hard determinism. Furthermore, this article exposes some implications of determinism for events and humanity. Finally, adopting eclecticism as its theoretical framework, this article proposes that it is best to approach the doctrine of determinism by simply
recognising and accepting the fact that there are aspects of humans that are determined, and there are equally aspects of humans that are not determined. By so doing, this article establishes that approaching the doctrine of determinism
eclectically is the surest way of accommodating the opposing doctrines of determinism and 'freewillism.’
Publication Title Elucidating the Problem of Translation in African Philosophy
Publication Type journal
Publisher Essence: Interdisciplinary-International Journal of Concerned African Philosophers
Publication Authors Etaoghene Paul Polo, and Donatus Osatofoh Ailodion
Year Published 2024-07-01
Abstract The world today is marked by linguistic diversity. It has nonetheless been described as a global village. Consequently, there is a growing interest in understanding issues across cultures and languages. This has necessitated the translation of texts and thoughts into languages that can reach out to a greater number of people. The challenge, however, has been to retain the originally intended meaning in the new language into which a text is translated. The concern of this paper is to elucidate the concept of translation and the views of philosophers on the concept, with a view to understanding the problem of translation, especially as it relates to African Philosophy. Ultimately, this research establishes that the problem of translating African philosophical thought can be addressed through (a) improved capacity building of African translators, (b) better access to resources and increased collaboration between African and non-African scholars, and (c) use of a “third language” as a medium of communication, which can help bridge cultural and linguistic gaps between African and non-African philosophical thoughts.
Publication Title Examining the Epistemological Status of AI-Aided Research in the Information Age: Research Integrity of Margaret Lawrence University in Delta State
Publication Type journal
Publisher International Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities: Africa Research Corps Network (ARCN) Journals
Publication Authors Etoaghene Paul Polo, Helen Emmanuel (PhD), and Obande Bonnie Obeka
Year Published 2024-08-01
Abstract This study examines the epistemological implications of the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in researches within the information age. Focusing on the particular case of Margaret Lawrence University, a leading research institution situated in Galilee, Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria, this study assesses the implications of AI-aided research and questions the integrity of AI-generated knowledge. Precisely, this study discusses the epistemological status of AI-generated knowledge by weighing the prospects and shortcomings of using AI in research. Also, this study explores a number of ethical considerations associated with AI-aided research, such as potential bias, digital piracy, and the risk of misinterpretation of results. Collectively, the findings of this study reveal that although AI has great potentials for advancing research, it has far-reaching implications for the integrity of research. This study concludes by recommending a number of measures which can be employed to foster responsible use of AI in research and ultimately ensure research integrity in Margaret Lawrence University and elsewhere.
Publication Title A Critique of Inductive Arguments in Logic
Publication Type journal
Publisher Nnadiebube Journal of Philosophy
Publication Authors Etaoghene Paul Polo
Year Published 2024-08-01
Abstract Blending the qualitative and analytic research methods, this article critically examines the nature and limitations of inductive arguments within the field of logic. Inductive arguments, unlike their deductive counterparts, provide conclusions that extend beyond the premises, thus offering probabilistic rather than certain conclusions. This critique emphasises the weak inferential connections inherent in inductive reasoning, where premises give only partial or probable support to conclusions. The analysis highlights the ampliative value of inductive arguments, illustrating how they broaden conceptual knowledge by introducing new information. However, the article also delves into reasons for their limited acceptance in logic, focusing on their probabilistic nature, contingency, experiential basis, and susceptibility to fallacies such as hasty generalisation, composition, false cause, and appeal to authority. Despite these criticisms, the article recognises that inductive arguments hold significant merit in scientific inquiry and everyday reasoning, contrasting with the firm, analytic nature of deductive arguments used in formal logic and philosophical analysis. The article concludes by advocating for a balanced approach in argumentation, underscoring the need to appreciate the contextual strengths and limitations of both inductive and deductive reasoning in the pursuit of effective logical analysis.
Publication Title A Critical Examination of Research Ethics in Treatment Recommendations for Diarrhoea
Publication Type journal
Publisher Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics
Publication Authors Etaoghene Paul Polo, and Shamima Parvin Lasker
Year Published 2024-11-01
Abstract This case study emphasises that when conducting research, especially one involving human subjects, researchers are expected to comply with applicable global and national ethical
standards. If a researcher fails to do so, he/she stands the risk of breaching research ethics, and this is capable of rendering his/her research unacceptable. Accordingly, this article, making reference to relevant ethical theories, critically examines and analyses the actions of a researcher who set out to
investigate treatment recommendations for diarrhoea. Ultimately, a number of ethical pitfalls in the stated case report are x-rayed. This article also aims to evaluate the actions of the researcher, with reference to ethical principles, such as deontologism, utilitarianism, Immanuel Kant’s Humanity
Principle, and Common Good. Finally, some recommendations for the study are provided in this
paper as well.
Publication Title An Appraisal of Peter David Klein's Epistemological Infinitism (Scepticism and Infinite Regress)
Publication Type journal
Publisher AMAMIHE: Journal of Applied Philosophy
Publication Authors Etaoghene Paul Polo, and John Friday Mordi, PhD
Year Published 2024-12-13
Abstract This paper offers a thorough appraisal of Peter David Klein's epistemological infinitism, emphasising his treatment of scepticism and the issue of infinite regress in epistemic justification. Klein, a prominent figure in contemporary epistemology, advocates for infinitism; a theory that argues justification is an unending process where each belief
requires further reasons indefinitely. The study critically evaluates how Klein's defense of infinitism provides a distinctive response to the infinite regress problem, a core concern in scepticism. By contextualising Klein's theory within the broader framework of epistemology, the research explores its implications for ongoing debates on justification
and scepticism. The methodology includes a thematic analysis of Klein's key philosophical contributions, coupled with a critical examination of competing justification theories such as foundationalism, coherentism, and contextualism. Employing a comparative approach, the study assesses Klein's infinitism alongside these
rival theories by drawing on primary texts and relevant secondary literature. The paper is divided into five sections: an introduction to scepticism and epistemic justification, an analysis of Klein's infinite regress argument, an exploration of traditional solutions to the
regress problem, criticisms of infinitism, and an appraisal of Klein's contributions. The
findings reveal that, despite its innovative approach, Klein's infinitism encounters
significant theoretical and practical challenges. The conclusion assesses whether
infinitism can adequately address the regress problem and considers its relevance to real-world epistemic practices.
Publication Title The Basics of Logic
Publication Type journal
Publisher Department of Philosophy, Albertine Institute, Kagoma, Kafanchan, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Publication Authors Etaoghene Paul Polo, John Thomas
Year Published 2018-05-17
Abstract This chapter attempts to establish an understanding of the concept of logic. Since there is no unanimous definition of logic, we shall consider some definitions which will facilitate our development of a working definition. This will be followed by a historical trajectory of logic as a discipline, and thereafter, an exposition of the scope and subject matter of logic, as well as the laws of thought shall be given. The aspects or divisions of logic shall also be examined here-in.
This chapter shall also include an overview of arguments in logic. This will be done by means of some definitions which will facilitate an understanding of the concept of argument. Since arguments are constituted by sentences which are called propositions, a distinction shall be made between sentences in the ordinary sense and in the propositional sense. This will be followed by a quick glance at the components of arguments.
Inference, a term which denotes the relationship between the components of arguments, namely, premises and conclusions, shall also be considered. Also to be discussed in this chapter are: types and kinds of arguments, some instantiations of arguments, truth-value of propositions, validity and invalidity of arguments as well as sound and unsound arguments. A briefing on the usefulness of arguments to man shall also be given in this chapter. The end-point of this chapter shall be a discourse on the relevance or value of logic as it applies to our daily living.
Publication Title In Praise of Normative Science: Arts and Humanities in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Publication Type journal
Publisher International Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities: Africa Research Corps Network (ARCN) Journals
Publication Authors Helen Titilola Olojede and Etoaghene Paul Polo
Year Published 2025-01-14
Abstract The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies is touted as ushering in the fourth
industrial revolution (4IR). 4IR, also known as ‘Industry 4.0,’ pertains to the burning internet connectivity,
sophisticated analytics and production, and automation’s transformative impacts on the world. The surge of change in the production arena started in the second half of 2010 and has continued to increase astronomically, with a
remarkable probability of shaping the future of manufacturing and humanity. The 4IR is thus heralding areas such as digitalisation, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, robotics, and 3D technologies amidst many other innovative digital technologies following the first, second and third industrial revolutions. The problem this paper addresses is the role of Arts and humanities (A&H) in the era of AI. Should A&H imbibe the empirical science methodology to stay
relevant? How does A&H contribute to 4IR? Leveraging on philosophical tools of arguments and reconstruction of
ideas, this paper argues for the significance of Kant’s thoughts in The Contest of the Faculties and that Arts and
humanities are instrumental to humanising science and technology, helping to shape interdisciplinary collaboration
and fostering understanding of the ethical, social and cultural dimensions of AI.
Publication Title Utilitarianism in Suicide: Insights from Freudian-Durkheimian Theories and the Response of Christian Ethics
Publication Type journal
Publisher Nnadiebube Journal of Social Sciences (NJSS)
Publication Authors Etaoghene Paul Polo, Obiageri Angelina Odife, and Tolulope Francis Elusiyan
Year Published 2025-02-12
Abstract This paper explores the concept of utilitarianism in relation to suicide, drawing insights from Freudian psychoanalytic theory and Durkheimian sociology, while presenting a Christian ethical response. Freud’s theory of the death drive (Thanatos) and Durkheim’s classifications of suicide suggest that individuals may seek relief or perceived pleasure in ending their lives, which could align with a utilitarian calculus of maximising pleasure and minimising pain. However, this paper argues that such a perspective fails to account for the broader pain caused to family, friends, and society, thus presenting a moral dilemma within the utilitarian
framework. Christian ethics, rooted in the sanctity of human life, categorically rejects suicide as a violation of divine law and the inherent dignity of human existence. The paper employs a qualitative methodology, utilising a critical analysis of existing literature on Freud and Durkheim’s theories of suicide, alongside theological texts on Christian moral theology. Through this interdisciplinary approach, the work contrasts the utilitarian implications of
suicide with the Christian ethical stance, ultimately concluding that Christian ethics offers a more holistic response, emphasising the moral obligation to preserve life.
Publication Title Tackling Racial Bias in AI Systems: Applying the Bioethical Principle of Justice and Insights from Joy Buolamwini’s “Coded Bias” and the “Algorithmic Justice League
Publication Type journal
Publisher Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics: Bangladesh Bioethics Society
Publication Authors Etaoghene Paul Polo and Donatus Osatofoh Ailodion
Year Published 2025-03-01
Abstract This paper examines the issue of racial bias in artificial intelligence (AI) through the lens of the bioethical principle of justice, with a focus on Joy Buolamwini’s Coded Bias and the work of the Algorithmic Justice League. AI technologies, particularly facial recognition systems, have been shown to disproportionately misidentify individuals from marginalised racial groups, raising profound ethical concerns about fairness and equity. The bioethical principle of justice stresses the importance of
equal treatment and protecting vulnerable populations. Through qualitative research, including
content analysis of Buolamwini’s works and case studies of AI bias, this paper assesses the efforts of the Algorithmic Justice League to combat racial bias in AI. It emphasises their advocacy for developing fair, equitable algorithms and calls for systemic reform in AI development to ensure justice
for marginalised communities.
Publication Title Towards a Just and Egalitarian Africa: Eradicating Injustices and Inequalities
Publication Type journal
Publisher NIU Journal of Humanities
Publication Authors Mark Ikeke and Etaoghene Paul Polo
Year Published 2025-03-31
Abstract Africa is a continent of paradoxes. The continent is richly blessed with abundant natural resources such as gold, diamond, oil, gas, bauxite, arable land, forests, wildlife, water, platinum,
chromium, cobalt, etc. The continent also has abundant human potential and resources. Despite all
these, the resources are poorly managed and this is
one of the reasons why there is a high rate of japa
(migration) out of the continent. Africa is massively
underdeveloped. Despite political independence from the colonialists many decades ago, the land of
Africa is inundated with injustices and inequalities.
Through critical hermeneutics and analytic methods, this paper argues that there is a need to eradicate injustices and inequalities in Africa. The paper finds out that many factors are responsible for inequalities and injustices in the continent, such as bad and inept political leadership, corruption, colonialism, neo
colonial influences, ethnicism, poor administration of criminal justice, etc. The paper concludes that if Africans mitigate injustices and inequalities, they will create a more just and egalitarian society.