In this scientific article, the author, Jonathan Howard, defines Blue Humanities as a framework that explores the intersection of human culture and the oceanic environment. The article suggests that it involves studying the ways in which the ocean influences human societies, cultures, and histories, as well as how humans interact with and perceive the ocean. This interdisciplinary approach considers the ocean not just as a physical entity but also as a cultural and historical force that shapes human experiences and perspectives. Howard explores the concept of humanity’s carbon footprint and its impact on the planet, drawing parallels with the transatlantic age of exploration and colonization. Howard challenges the notion of the “stand your ground subject,” suggesting that a more promising approach lies in an oceanic recalibration of the human-environment relationship. By examining the drowned Africans remembered in Olaudah Equiano’s narrative as the “inhabitants of the deep,” Howard advocates for a shift towards a Black and Blue Humanities framework that considers the ocean as a vital element in understanding human culture, history, and ecological interconnectedness. Through this perspective, Howard calls for a re-evaluation of how humans interact with the planet and emphasizes the importance of reclaiming a proper relationship with the world.
Citation: Howard, J. (2022). Swim your ground: Towards a black and blue humanities. Atlantic Studies, 20(2), 308–330.