African Socialism is a collection of writings that examines the emergence of the concept of African-style socialism in the early years of African independence. Edited by William H. Friedland and Carl G. Rosberg, Jr., this book explores how African leaders such as Nyerere, Senghor, and Nkrumah combined traditional values, communal social structures, and modern aspirations to develop political id…
This book examines the major tensions shaping the modern world: the struggle between "Jihad," which is local tribalism and fundamentalism, and "McWorld," which is the forces of globalization, capitalism, and consumer culture. Benjamin Barber explains how these two forces—though seemingly opposed—both undermine democracy. "Jihad" divides society into narrow identities and ethnic conflicts, w…
This first volume of Jürgen Habermas's landmark work lays out the foundations of the theory of communicative action, a key approach in modern social philosophy and sociology. Habermas analyzes how rationality develops in society through communication, not just through instrumental action. The book explores the relationship between social action, societal rationalization, and the communication …
This book examines the complex relationship between technology and culture in communist societies. Frederic J. Fleron explores how technological innovations influenced social structures, cultural values, and political processes in socialist countries. Using a socio-political approach, the book examines the impact of technology on communist ideology, changes in societal behavior, and the dynamic…
L’Afrique déboussolée is a work of investigative journalism that depicts the political, social, and economic conditions of African countries in the post-colonial era. Christian Casteran and Jean-Pierre Langellier explore the various crises—from power struggles, corruption, coups, and ethnic conflicts—that shaped the dynamics of the African continent in the mid-20th century. The book …
An Account of the Manners and Customs of the Modern Egyptians is a classic ethnographic study by Edward William Lane, based on his direct observations during his stay in Egypt from 1833 to 1835. The book provides a detailed and comprehensive description of Egyptian society in the 19th century, covering social structure, daily life, religious practices, ceremonies, clothing, customs, education, …
Abner Cohen's book, The Politics of Elite Culture, examines how elite groups construct, maintain, and manipulate power through symbols, rituals, and social actions in modern African societies, particularly through a case study of Sierra Leone. Using a political anthropology approach, Cohen outlines the relationship between elites, bureaucracies, professions, and power structures, and how elite …
Tradition and Identity in Changing Africa examines the dynamics of social and cultural change in various African societies in the 20th century. Using ethnological approaches and case studies, authors Mark A. Tessler, William M. O’Barr, and David H. Spain explore how traditions, social structures, and cultural identities transformed in the context of modernization and political change. This bo…
This book examines the impact of the apartheid system on culture and education in Namibia during the South African colonial period. Marion O'Callaghan analyzes how discriminatory policies affected social development, cultural identity, educational structures, and the rights of Namibians. Using a historical and sociological approach, this UNESCO publication provides a comprehensive overview of t…
This book presents an overview of Namibia in the early 1980s, covering the country's geography, history, social life, and political development. Written by Alfred Babing and Hans-Dieter Bräuer, it provides an informative perspective on Namibian society, colonial dynamics, and the challenges of national development. Published by Verlag Zeit im Bild in Dresden, it is aimed at an international au…