Abstract
This thesis is on social/ political theory and ethics. It is an attempt on a dialogue between two different but equal philosophies: African communitarianism [hunhu/ ubuntu] and Rawls’s justice as fairness with the aim of advancing a novel theory of justice for failed states. It uses Zimbabwe as an illustrative case study. The euphoria that gripped many African countries after gaining independence has died. Hopes and dreams of a better life after colonial rule have been shattered as ills such as corruption, human rights abuses, injustice, coups, and sham elections have become synonymous with independent Africa. For many living in Africa, life is hard, despondent and brutal. Rather than achieving the gains of the liberation struggle that brought about independence, a number of African nations are failing their citizens in a number of societal spheres which has resulted in them been classified as failed states. Also, the important values of Afro- communitarianism or hunhu/ ubuntu that once held communities together have been shunned for Euro- American models of democracy which have however proved to be inadequate in countering the problems that Africa is facing. Zimbabwe, a country once revered for her success as a fast developing nation, is now a nation in tatters. Though long-time leader and dictator the late Robert Mugabe was toppled in a coup, prospects for the majority of citizens have not changed. Signs of solidarity and humanness that were once exhibited during the early years of independence have been replaced by greed, looting, and despotic rule which has resulted in the mass exodus of citizens to other countries in search of better life prospects. In addition to the country’s woes are the shrinking democratic space, a disjointed opposition, arbitrary arrests, disregard of human dignity, failure by the state to guarantee basic goods, state- sponsored violence, deteriorating infrastructure, and a collapsed heath care system. Again, life in Zimbabwe is difficult, bumpy, and cruel. I contend that the many problems highlighted here have their
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source in Africa and Zimbabwe in particular, hence the need for a novel and refreshing theory of justice that can address the dire situation of failed states. The threat caused by failed states cannot be ignored, especially in Africa where high levels of poverty, disputed elections, and coup de tats are now a common feature. The need for a relevant theory of justice is more than urgent. I contend that such a theory of justice should answer to the needs of Africans and especially those in failed states. The theory should be founded in the prized ethic of hunhu/ ubuntu whose tenets are capable of bringing stability and harmony to societies. Imagine a theory of justice for failed states grounded in salient sub- Saharan values such as humanness, solidarity, compassion, honesty, accountability, relatedness and promotion of the collective good? This theory of justice should also avoid the gaffe of epistemic injustice by not limiting itself to one worldview. Rather, it should be progressive and dialogue with other modern views on liberal democracy such as Rawls’s justice as fairness. These two philosophies possess some similar values that are indispensable in thinking about social justice in Africa, and maybe elsewhere as well. So, I submit that a theory of justice founded on hunhu/ ubuntu and justice as fairness can bring hope and rekindle the euphoria that Africa once experienced at independence. This thesis is also a contribution towards the project of decolonizing the intellectual landscape. Most political theories of justice appeal essentially to Western moral values of utility and respect which seem to offer a limited idea of human happiness. I contend that philosophical discourse in Africa ought to have African thought at its heart. As a continent Africa is rich and has a lot to contribute intellectually. Hence, African values should play a prominent role in the dominant philosophical debates on justice. A fusion with the liberal political theory as espoused by Rawls will not only contribute to the decolonization project, but will also provide a novel theory that can reverse African failed states and restore the humanity and dignity of their citizens.