Answer to Question #235594 in Political Science for Tshwanelo

Question

1. How populism and capitalism are used to shape political actions in Africa?

Answer 1

Populism has re-emerged across the globe, displaying multiple, left and right leaning variants and provoking complex engagements with the limits of liberal democracy. These new forms of populism that are being expressed across the political spectrum invite careful analysis of the continuities and ruptures in African politics from the 20th to the 21st centuries. Numerous contemporary populist movements have histories in the past, and they provide language markers and affecting records for contemporary encounters. However, current populism brands distinguish themselves from being merely an emballage and reaffirmation of national liberation.

Capitalism helps Africa to bring 'nature' back to its analysis as a source of production and reproduction, as well as issues of excess distribution, social differentiation, and class struggle. It helps us to re-socialize society and economy by focusing on dynamics and accumulation mechanisms rather than simply considering society or economy in depoliticized ways.