African Political Systems Revisited: Changing Perspectives on Statehood and Power

This book examines the colonial and academic context of African Political Systems (1940), edited by Fortes and Evans-Pritchard, and its reception and subject matter. It critically reflects on the history of anthropology and contributes to a political anthropology that is aware of its antecedents, self-reflexive, and able to locate itself in its academic, social, and political environment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 08 April 2022
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Revisiting a seminal work of social anthropology, African Political Systems (1940), edited by Fortes and Evans-Pritchard, this comprehensive volume delves into the historical and academic backdrop that shaped the work, its reception, and the central themes it explores. Moreover, it examines how this influential text can provide valuable insights into contemporary African politics. This book serves as a critical reflection on the field of anthropology, contributing to a political anthropology that is cognizant of its historical roots, self-reflexive as a discipline, aware of potential pitfalls and biases, and situated within its academic, social, and political context.

The historical and academic context within which African Political Systems emerged is of paramount importance. The book was published during the era of colonialism, a period characterized by the immense power and influence of European nations over African societies. Fortes and Evans-Pritchard, as editors, sought to provide a comprehensive account of the political systems of Africa, drawing upon the expertise of various scholars and researchers.

The reception of African Political Systems was both positive and critical. While the work received praise for its insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of African political systems, it also faced criticism for its Eurocentric perspective and the limited representation of African voices and perspectives.

The subject matter of African Political Systems is wide-ranging and encompasses various political systems, institutions, and ideologies across Africa. The book explores the complex interplay between colonialism, nationalism, and traditional African societies, examining how these factors have shaped the political landscape of the continent. It also examines the role of African leaders, such as Kwame Nkrumah and Julius Nyerere, in the struggle for independence and the establishment of new political systems.

One of the key strengths of African Political Systems is its ability to provide a historical and comparative analysis of African political systems. The book offers a comprehensive overview of the political structures and processes that have existed in Africa over centuries, allowing readers to understand the complexities and nuances of African politics. It also highlights the similarities and differences between African political systems and those in other regions of the world, shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities that Africa faces in the contemporary world.

In addition to its analytical and historical contributions, African Political Systems also has practical implications for contemporary African politics. The book provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that African nations face in the post-colonial era, including issues such as political stability, economic development, and social justice. It also offers recommendations for policymakers and scholars seeking to understand and address the political challenges facing Africa.

Overall, African Political Systems is a seminal work of social anthropology that has had a lasting impact on the field. By critically examining the history, reception, and subject matter of this text, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex political dynamics of Africa and the role that anthropology plays in shaping our understanding of the world.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800734722