After Corporate Paternalism: Material Renovation and Social Change in Times of Ruination

In this ethnographic study, Christian Straube explores how post-paternalist ruination and renovation intersect in Mpatamatu, a former mining town on the Zambian Copperbelt, offering insights into how people reappropriate former corporate spaces and transform them into personal projects of renovation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 12 May 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

In this captivating ethnographic exploration, Christian Straube delves deep into the intricate dynamics of post-paternalist ruination and renovation, shedding light on the profound social transformations occurring at the crossroads of material decay and social disconnection within the historic mining township of Mpatamatu in Luanshya, one of the oldest mining towns on the Zambian Copperbelt. Spanning a wide range of topics, including industrial history, colonial town planning, social control, materiality, gender relations, and neoliberal structural change, After Corporate Paternalism provides a unique and insightful perspective on how individuals reclaim and repurpose former corporate spaces, transforming them into personal endeavors of renovation. This transformative process not only reshapes the physical landscape of the community but also profoundly alters its character, fostering a sense of community ownership, resilience, and creativity.

Through meticulous fieldwork and detailed analysis, Straube uncovers the complex interplay between historical legacies, social structures, and individual agency, revealing how the residents of Mpatamatu have navigated the challenges of post-paternalism and emerged as agents of change. The book offers a rich tapestry of stories and anecdotes, showcasing the diverse ways in which individuals have repurposed abandoned buildings, initiated community projects, and cultivated a sense of belonging in a community that had been left behind by corporate interests.

One of the key themes explored in After Corporate Paternalism is the role of gender in shaping these transformations. Straube highlights how women have played a pivotal role in reclaiming and revitalizing spaces, often taking on leadership roles in community initiatives and challenging traditional gender norms. He also explores the ways in which neoliberal policies and economic restructuring have impacted gender relations, exacerbating existing inequalities and creating new challenges for women in the community.

Another important aspect of the book is its examination of the relationship between materiality and social change. Straube argues that the physical decay of former corporate spaces provides an opportunity for individuals to reclaim and redefine their sense of place and identity. He explores how the materiality of these spaces, such as the architecture, infrastructure, and artifacts, can be used as a catalyst for storytelling, memory, and cultural preservation.

Furthermore, After Corporate Paternalism sheds light on the broader implications of these social transformations for urban planning, governance, and social justice. Straube argues that the reclamation of former corporate spaces can serve as a model for sustainable urban development, promoting community-driven initiatives, and promoting social inclusion and equity. He also highlights the challenges and limitations of these processes, such as the need for sustainable funding, political will, and community engagement.

In conclusion, After Corporate Paternalism is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the complex dynamics of post-paternalist ruination and renovation. Through its rich ethnographic analysis, the book provides valuable insights into how individuals, communities, and societies navigate the challenges of social change and emerge as agents of transformation. It is a must-read for scholars, activists, and anyone interested in understanding the complex relationships between materiality, social disconnection, and social change in contemporary society.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 150 x 229 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800739321