New Paradigm: Communitarian, Humanist African Theory of Regional Integration

Stephen M. Magu ()
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Stephen M. Magu: Norfolk State University

Chapter Chapter 3 in Towards Pan-Africanism, 2023, pp 47-73 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This chapter proceeds from the propositions advanced in Chapter 2 . Having established that current, Euro-Atlantic-derived foreign policy theories are necessary but insufficient to explain foreign policy-making in Africa, and in particular, the processes of regional cooperation and integration that are central to Africa’s Regional Economic Communities (RECs), a new approach is warranted. The theory proposed, nee explanation, leverages the specific social, economic, political and cultural conditions peculiar to Africa. First, the chapter applies Kuhn’s Structure of Scientific Revolutions’ paradigm shift to show the need for alternate thinking. It then considers the universality of African philosophy, which explains the conduct expected towards other people. Now universal, it is derived from that Bantu concept of ubuntu. We argue that African regional cooperation is best explained by ùbúntú, which espouses shared communal values. They include respect, dignity, caring and sharing, humanity and morality, group solidarity, compassion, human dignity, humanity, harmony and conformity to basic norms. They include collective unity, concern for others, conformity, reciprocity, dignity, inclusivity and honesty. Concepts related to the ùbúntú include ujamaa (familial) and harambee. The chapter notes instances where African leaders have referred to their opposite number in familial terms like ‘kaka’ (older brother), ‘ndugu’ (brother), ‘dada’ (sister), demonstrating that even the conduct of official state business by African leaders, cooperation is informed by Africanist, communitarian, humanist traditions.

Date: 2023
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-981-19-8944-5_3

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DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-8944-5_3

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