Previous page | New search |
The free AfricaBib App for Android is available here
Periodical article | Leiden University catalogue | WorldCat |
Title: | Amoral Politics and Democratic Instability in Africa: A Theoretical Exploration |
Author: | Osaghae, Eghosa E. |
Year: | 1995 |
Periodical: | Nordic Journal of African Studies |
Volume: | 4 |
Issue: | 1 |
Pages: | 62-79 |
Language: | English |
Geographic term: | Africa |
Subjects: | legitimacy democracy Politics and Government |
External link: | https://njas.fi/njas/article/view/684/507 |
Abstract: | Democratic governance failed to survive in Africa after independence in the 1960s. This article examines the reasons for this failure on the premise that democracy can only survive when people believe the State has the moral right to compel obedience and consent. At the heart of democratic instability in most African countries is the fact that the State operates in a largely amoral milieu which makes it possible for politicians to abuse their position in pursuit of private ends. The origins and manifestations of this amoral milieu are analysed, as well as the links between what is called 'amoral familism', or the tendency to become involved in politics only insofar as it promises material gain for the individual and his family, and the legitimacy crisis of the African State. The author argues that democratic stability in Africa will be difficult to attain as long as the amorality of the political order remains. Bibliogr., sum. |