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Predatory State-Society Relations in Africa: A Longstanding Historical Legacy with Contemporary Implications

Raymond Chandler

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Published in Africa S Big Men: Predatory State Society Relations In Africa (Global Africa)

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The relationship between the state and society in Africa has been characterized by a long history of predation, exploitation, and oppression. This predatory relationship has its roots in the colonial era, when European powers imposed their rule on African societies through violence, coercion, and economic exploitation. After independence, many African states continued to adopt predatory practices, as elites used their power to enrich themselves at the expense of the general population.

The Colonial Legacy

The colonial era had a profound impact on state-society relations in Africa. European powers established a system of economic exploitation that benefited their own economies at the expense of African societies. They also imposed a system of political control that was based on violence and coercion. This system of colonial rule created a deep-seated mistrust between the state and society, as Africans came to see the state as an instrument of oppression.

Africa’s Big Men: Predatory State-Society Relations in Africa (Global Africa)

by Giuseppe Nocera Costabile

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	272 pages

One of the most damaging legacies of colonialism was the way in which it divided African societies. European powers often used divide-and-conquer tactics to maintain control over their colonies. They created ethnic and religious divisions, and they pitted different groups against each other. This legacy of division has continued to plague African societies in the post-colonial era, and it has made it difficult for states to build strong and cohesive societies.

Post-Colonial Predation

After independence, many African states continued to adopt predatory practices. Elites used their power to enrich themselves at the expense of the general population. They did this through a variety of means, including corruption, nepotism, and the misappropriation of public funds.

Predatory state-society relations have had a devastating impact on African societies. They have led to widespread poverty, inequality, and conflict. They have also undermined the rule of law and the legitimacy of the state.

Contemporary Implications

The legacy of predatory state-society relations continues to have a profound impact on Africa today. It is a major obstacle to development and it is a source of conflict and instability. In order to address this challenge, it is essential to understand the historical roots of predatory state-society relations and to develop strategies to overcome them.

Overcoming Predatory State-Society Relations

There are a number of steps that can be taken to overcome predatory state-society relations in Africa. These include:

Promoting good governance. Good governance is essential for creating a state that is responsive to the needs of its citizens. It involves the rule of law, transparency, accountability, and participation.
Fighting corruption. Corruption is a major obstacle to development and it undermines the legitimacy of the state. It is essential to fight corruption through a combination of legal, institutional, and social reforms.
Investing in education. Education is essential for empowering citizens and for creating a more informed and engaged citizenry. It is also essential for building a more prosperous and equitable society.
Promoting civil society. Civil society plays a vital role in holding the state accountable and in representing the interests of citizens. It is essential to support the growth of civil society organizations and to create an environment in which they can operate freely.

Predatory state-society relations have been a major obstacle to development in Africa. However, it is possible to overcome this challenge by promoting good governance, fighting corruption, investing in education, and promoting civil society. By taking these steps, we can create a more just, equitable, and prosperous Africa.

Africa’s Big Men: Predatory State-Society Relations in Africa (Global Africa)

by Giuseppe Nocera Costabile

4.4 out of 5