Friday, 15 June 2012

SYLLABUS OF POSTGRADUATECOURSE ON THE POLITICAL ECONOMY OF AFRICA

DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

BAYERO UNIVERSITY, KANO

KANO – NIGERIA

M.M. YUSIF

2011/2012 ACADEMIC SESSION

INSTRUCTOR

M.M. YUSIF

mmyusif@yohoo.com

mmyusif07@gmail.com

polbuk@yahoo.com

http://www.mmyusif.blogspot.com

INTRODUCTION

This is the syllabus of the course on the Political Economy of Africa, which is part of the Masters Degree Programme of the Department of Political Science, Bayero University, Kano – Nigeria during 2011/2012 Academic year. The course is taught during the first semester.

It is intended to expose students for a research work which centers on an analysis of state, society and economy in contemporary Africa.

The issues for treatment are deliberately selected to give a background on the controversy about state theory, perspectives on state – society relations and debates on current topical issues in Africa.

It is expected that the course will be covered in fifteen (15) weeks. Weekly meetings of three hours each will be divided into three track display of ideas: first is 40 minutes of talks or lecture by the course instructor – followed by two working sessions – one is discussion of a selected text relevant on the topic of the week and two, either a discussion of a specific research work or any other programme the lecturer may come up with. There are going to be working groups discussions.

The texts selected for reading are meant to give theoretical and methodological guide to students on analysis of the issues. There are many other materials as literature which have covered the themes, rather narrowly or broadly, or as case studies. Texts on Nigeria are abundant and can be obtained. Students are expected to read widely. Online sources are relevant. Become independent researcher and learner now!

DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE

Globalisation of the World Economy refers to the ability of capital to move freely across national boundaries. As a result of this, the world, especially the African continent, is going through rapid transformation, whose social, political and economic characters posed many critical questions on theory and practice of the state. For instance, if state represents class interest what is the logic of characterizing it weak or strong? Again, if it is said that globalisation has weakened the state, one may ask, is it not the state which has generated globalisation? Or is it globalisation which has necessarily shaped the power of the state? Many similar questions depicting the relation between state and society will be raised.

Yes! The "end of geography" thesis has pushed the idea that globalized form of economic activity has undermined the ability of nation-state to control the national economy. On the other hand, as an expression of class power the state must project the interest of the nation. Other wise wouldn't it be irrelevant?

The central focus of this course, in this academic year is state-society relations in contemporary economy of Africa. The teaching programme is divided into four parts of a single process of development of knowledge. First is conceptualizing political economy of Africa. Secondly, paradigms of state-society relationship. Thirdly, is state theory in Political Economy. The fourth will treat issues in political economy of Africa.

COURSE SYLLABUS

Week 1: GENERAL INTRODUCTION:

Introducing the course and what it is about; course requirements; methods for students of political science; contribution of the students on the teaching programme.

Readings

  1. M. M. Yusif. Principles of Teaching and Learning in Classes of M. M. Yusif. (online).
  2. Mauro C. and Rosanna D. "E. Research: An Introduction to Online Political Science for Beginners and Skeptics". IPSR Vol. 28 No. 2.
  3. Stephen V. F. Guide to Methods for Students of Political Science. (Online).
  4. Margaret Stacey (1977). Methods of Social Research.

IN PLACE OF DISCUSSION:

A supervised test to determine capacity of the students on political economy.

Week 2: CONCEPTUALISING POLITICAL ECONOMY OF AFRICA

Readings

  1. Caparaso and Levine (1994), Theories of Political Economy. Cambridge, University Press.
  2. Bruno S. Frey (1978). Modern Political Economy. Western Printing Services, Bristol
  3. Eskor Toyo (1983), "The return of Political Economy". JPE Vol. 1 No.1.
  4. James Petras, "Liberal, Structural and Radical Approaches to Political Economy: an assessment and an alternative.
  5. Antonio Merlo, "Whither Political Economy? Theories, Facts and Issues". (Online).
  6. Claude A. "The Political Economy Approach". Explanatory Notes on Marxian Theory in Africa.
  7. Claude A. (1978). A Political Economy of Africa. Heinemann. London.
  8. Swai B. "Marx, Marxism and the Third World". Conference Paper.
  9. Swai B. "Observation Regarding Some Recent Trends in African Historiography" Conference Paper.
  10. Bade O. "Marx, Africa and the World System". Conference Paper.
  11. Yusufu B. U. "Karl Marx and the Analysis of the Politics of Contemporary Africa. Conference Paper.
  12. Online, "The Political Economy of Africa in the Global System".
  13. Paul Collier (2006). International Political Economy: Some African Applications". Online.
  14. Walter Rodney ( ). How Europe Underdeveloped Africa.
  15. Ernest Mandel (1962). Marxist Economic Theory. Merlin Press London Chapter 18.

    DISCUSSION QUESTION:

The Relevance of Marxian Theory in Analysis and Explanations of State and Society in Contemporary Africa

Week 3:
STATE AND SOCIETY: PARADIGMS OF THE RELATIONSHIP

Readings

  1. Richard B. (1923) "Liberalism" in Roger E and Anthony W. Contemporary Political Ideologies.
  2. Beckman, B. (1993). "The Liberation of Civil Society: Neo-Liberal Ideology and Political Theory. ROAPE No. 58.
  3. Filip D. B. (1998). Democracy and the State – Society Paradigm: Reflections on Adelman's Paper. Online.
  4. Hamdy A. and Rahman H. (2009) "The State and Civil Society in Africa: North African Perspective". Online.
  5. Colin Crouch (1979), "The State Capital and Liberal Democracy". In Colin Crouch (ed.) State and Economy in Contemporary Capitalism. Croom Helm London.
  6. Pierre D. T. (1995). State Building and Democracy in Southern Africa. USIP Washington.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. What factors could determine the relationship between state and society?
  2. What could you say from any African country to show the nature of changing state – society relations.

    Week 4: THEORETICAL FOUNDATION: STATE IN MARXIST THEORY – FROM LENIN TO GROMSCI

Readings

  1. Lenin V. I. State and Revolution
  2. Marx K. (1977). The Eighteenth Brumaire in of Loius Bonasparte. Progress Publishers Moscow
  3. Marx, K. (1977). The Class Struggle in France. Progress Publishers Moscow.
  4. Gramsci, A. (1972). Selections from Prison Notebooks. Lawrence and Wisharl London.
  5. Carnoy M. (1984). The State and Political Theory. Princeton University Press Now Jersy, Chapters, 2 and 3.
  6. Andreas B. and Adam D. M. (2003). "Globalisation, the State and Class Struggle: A Critical Economy engagement with Open Marxism". British Journal of Politics and International Relations Vol. 5 No. 4.
  7. Fred B. (198). "Beyond Relative Autonomy" in Socialist Register.
  8. Berch B. (1983). "The Class Nature of the State in peripheral formations". JCA Vol. 3 No. 3.
  9. James Peters (1978). "Aspects of Class formation in the periphery: Power Structures and Strategies. In Critical Perspectives on Imperialism and Social Classes in Third World. Monthly Review Press. New York and London.

DISCUSSION QUESTION

  1. There are varied perspectives of State: Pluralist; Institutionalist; Historical Humanist and Marxian class Perspectives. Bring out and observe Marx's Class Perspective of State.
  2. How does Gramscis fits class perspective Approach
  3. What are the differences if there are between Marx's classical and the Gramscian. Give a basis of these for understanding social change and control in Africa.

Week 5:    STATE THEORY: PARADIGM IN CHAOS

Readings

  1. Jessop B. (1990). "Putting States in their Place: Once more on Capitalist States and Capitalist Societies". (Online)
  2. Carnoy M. (1984). The State and Political Theory. Ibid.
  3. John Holloway and Sol Picciotto (1978). State and Capital. A Marxist Debate. Edward trnold. London.
  4. Werner B. "The Capitalist State: Illusion and Critique".
  5. Poulantzas N. (1975). Classes in Contemporary Capitalism. Verso London.
  6. Poulantzas N. (1968). Political Power and Social Classes. Francois Maspero London.
  7. Clarks S. (1978). "Capital, Fractions of Capital and the State: Neo-Marxist Analysis of the South African State". In Capital and Class No. 5.
  8. Davies R. and others (1976). "Class Struggle and the periodisation of the State in South Africa". In ROAPE No. 7.
  9. Innes D. and Plaut B. (1978). "Class Struggle and the State". In ROAPE No.11
  10. Kaplan D. (1979). "Relations of Production, Class Struggle and the State, in South Africa in the interwan period". ROAPE Nos. 15/16.
  11. Othman S. (1984). "Classes, Crises and Coup: the demise of shagari's regime". In African Affairs Vol. 83 No. 333.
  12. M. M. Yusif (1985). The rise of Industrial Bourgeosie: the 1983 coup and Prospects of Dependents Industrialisation in Nigeria. Proceedings of 1985 NPSA Conference Ilorin.
  13. M. M. Yusif (1985). "Economic Crisis, Accumulation and Class Confrontation in Nigeria: 1979-1983". (Online).
  14. Saul J. S. (1981). "The Unsteady State: Uganda, Obote and General Amin. ROAPE No. 5.
  15. Hamza A. (1979). "The State in Post-Colonial Societies: Pakistan and Bangladesh in Goulbourn H. Politics and State in the Third World. Macmillan London.
  16. Miliband R. (1973). The State in Capitalist Society. Quartel Books London
  17. Poulantzas N. and Ralph Miliband "The Problems of the Capitalist State.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. State Theory is in Chaos as Theories of State are also Theories of Politics. Assess any one Theory of State with Reality of Politics in any African Country.
  2. Examine the relevance of poulantzas – Miliband Controversy on State to any African Society.

    Week 6: STATE THEORY IN GLOBALISATION: PARADIGM LOST

Readings

  1. Alessandro B. and others. "Global Post-Fordism and Concepts of the State.
  2. William I. R. (1998). "Capitalist Globalisation and the Transnationalisation of the State".
  3. William I. R. (2000). "Towards a Global Ruling Class? Globalisation and the Transnational Capitalist Class.
  4. Leslie S. "The Transnational Capitalist Class and the Discourse of Globalisation".
  5. Jan A. S. (1997). "Global Capitalism and the State". International Affairs Vol. 73 No. 3.

DISCUSSION QUESTION

Is a State Located in African Territories Irrelevant in the Logic of Capital in the Era of Neo-Liberal Globalisation?

Working Group Discussion

The Growth/Development of State is Accompanied by Diverse Analysis of New Social Role in the Society. Discuss and Report this Case with Reference to any Society in Africa.

Week 7: AFRICA IN A GLOBALISING ECONOMY: THE ROLE OF STATE

Readings

  1. Samir A. (2002). "Africa: Living on the Fringe". Monthly Review Vol. 53 (10)
  2. No name, "The Political Economy of Africa in the Global System".
  3. Loxley J. (1987). "The IMF, the World Bank and Sub-Saharan Africa: Policies and Politics". Kjell I. J. The IMF and the World Bank in Africa: Conditionality, Impact and Alternatives.
  4. Lipietz A. (1984). "How Monetarism has Chocked Third World Industrialisation". New Left Review No. 145.
  5. Bjoin B. "State and Capitalist Development in Nigeria". ROAPE No. 23
  6. …………., "Neo-Colonialism, Capitalism and the State in Nigeria".
  7. Ishrat Hussain and Rashid Faruquee (eds.). Adjustment in Africa: Lessons from Country Case Studies. The World Bank. Washington.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. Is it Correct to Say that Globalisation has Made the African State Weak?
  2. Capital moved to stage final conquest of Africa through structural adjustment programme. Examine the different role of the state on this project.
  3. The beneficiaries of neo-liberal economic programs are not african communities but rather the thin layer of elites who sponsor such programmes. Do you agree?

    Week 8: GLOBALISATION, STATE AND DEMOCRACY DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA

Readings

  1. Alan H. (1980). Marxism and Democracy. Lawrence and Wishart London.
  2. Barry H. (ed.) (2000). Global Democracy. Key Debates. Routledge. London.
  3. Svetozar S. (1981). "Marxism and Democracy. The Ruling Class or the Dominant Class? (Online).
  4. William Z. (2008). "Sub-Saharan Africa: Implosion or Take-off"? (Online).
  5. Omano E. (2005). A Democratic Developmental State in Africa? A Concept Paper. (Online).
  6. Richard J. ( ). State, Conflict and Democracy in Africa. Parts I and II
  7. Michael, B. and Nicolas V. W. (1997). Democratic Experiment in Africa. Cambridge University Press.
  8. Mamadoes D. (1998). Political Liberalisation or Democratic Transition: African Perspectives Codescia.
  9. Eshetu, C. and Jibrin, I. (eds.) (1995) Democratisation Processes in Africa: Problems and Prospects. Codesria Book Series.
  10. Larry D. (1999). Developing Democracy Toward Consolidation – John Hopkins University Press.
  11. Nnoli O. (2000). "Globalisation and Democracy in Africa". D. W. Nabudere (ed.) Globalisation and the Post-Colonial African State. AAPS Books Zimbabwe.
  12. Ake C. (2001). Democracy and Development in Africa. Sepctrum Books Ibadan.
  13. Larry, D. and Mark K. P. (1979). Democratisation in Africa. The Johns Hopkins University Press. Baltimore and London.
  14. Peter, G., Yusuf, B. and Arve, O. (1992). Authoritarianism Democracy and Adjustment: The Politics of Economic Reform in Africa. The SIAS Uppsala Chapters 1 and 2
  15. Lars Rudebeck (ed.) (1992). When Democracy Makes Sense. AKUT Uppsala.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. Neo-Liberal Globalisation has Made Sense in Creating Liberalisation out of Dictatorship but from Democracy Point of View is Nonsense.
  2. Democracy Manages State Power but Since the Local Power Base in the Era of Globalisation is Weak Democracy too Becomes Weak and Superficial.
  3. Democracy and Development in Africa? Assess the Relationship.
  4. Examine the Sense of the Argument that Since the Ruling-Class has Become Transnational the State too is Transnational and Democracy ought to be Global.

Week 9: CAPITALISM, STATE AND LABOUR IN AFRICA

Readings

  1. Richard Hyman (1975). Industrial Relations: A Marxist Introduction. The Macmillan Press Ltd – London
  2. Dominie Strinati (1979). "The State and Industrial Relation". Colin Crouch (ed.). The Economy in Contemporary Capitalism Croom Helm London
  3. Leo-Panitch (1986). Working Class Politics in Crisis: Essays on Labour and the State. Chapters 6 and 7.
  4. Beckman, B. and Sachikonye L. M. (eds.) (2001) Labour Regime and Liberalisation: The Restructuring of State and Society Relations in Africa. AAPS Books Zimbabwe.
  5. Yusuf Bangura and Bjorn Beckman (1988) "African Workers and Structural Adjustment: The Nigerian Case". Dharam Ghai (ed.). The IMF and the South: the Social Impact of Crisis and Adjustment.
  6. Bjorn Beckman, "Trade Unions and Institutional Reform: Nigerian Experiences with South African and Ugandan Comparison".
  7. Bjorn Beckman. "The Politics of Reform: Responses of African Trade Unions with a South African Case.
  8. Bjorn Beckman, "African Trade Unions and the Politics of Reform".
  9. Eskor Toyo. "Deregulation, Collective Bargaining and the Settlement of Industrial Disputes".
  10. Ismel Akca. "Globalisation, State and Labour: Towards a Social Movement Unionism.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. Fordist state in Nigeria became a reality in labour control but post-fordist is as if the concept is a myth.
  2. Globalisation Restructured Capital-Labour Relations Making the Politics of Labour Simpler to Control.
  3. Regulation Theory and Labour Relation. Comment.

    Week 10: GLOBALISATION THE STATE AND URBAN YOUTH IN AFRICA

Readings

  1. Richard Sandbrook (1982). The Politics of Basic Needs: Urban Aspects of Assalting Poverty in Africa. Heinemann London.
  2. M. M. Yusif (2011). The Dilemma of Neo-Liberal Youths in Nigeria: The Post April 16th Violence. (Online).
  3. M. M. Yusif (2012). Social Violence Called Boko Haram in Northern Nigeria: Some Thoughts. (Online).
  4. Mike Davis (2004). "Planet of Slums: Urban Involution and the Informal Proletariat". NLR No. 26.
  5. Asef Bayat (1997). Uncivil Society: The Politics of the Informal People". Third World Quarterly Vol. 18 No.1.
  6. Frank Longstreth (1979). "The City, Industry and the State". Colin Crouch (ed.). The Economy in Contemporary Capitalism.
  7. Kaplan, Robert (1994). "The Coming Anarchy". The Atlantic Monthly No. 273 No.2.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. Construct a Model of Understanding the Character of Neo-Liberal Youths.
  2. The State and the Neo-Liberal Youths are the Strongest Forces in African Cities Today. Analyse their Organisations and Politics in any City of your choice.
  3. Neo-Liberal Youths Violence is Anti-Politics. Discuss.

Week 11: GLOBALISATION, STATE AND CLASSES IN AFRICA

Readings

  1. Werner Bonefeld. "Notes on Competition, Capitalist Crisis, and Class" (Online).
  2. Werner Bonefeld. "Marx Critique of Economics on Lebowitz
  3. Alejandro Colas. "The Class Politics of Globalisation".
  4. Harry Cleaver. "The Inversion of Class Perspective in Marxian Theory: From Valorisation to Self-Valorisation".
  5. William K. Tabb. (2006). "Capital, Class and the State in the Global Political Economy".
  6. Karl Max (1977). Wage Labour and Capital". Selected Works Vol. 1

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. Globalisation has raised theorizing about class divisions to global. Is that theorizing a reality? If yes, what is the interface between the local and the global? If not make a concrete analysis of class formation in any African Country.
  2. How is the local state, inspite of local divisions and differences towards neo-liberal agenda negotiates with global power and imposed the same to the whole society.

    Week 12: THE STATE AND NEW SOCIAL MOVEMENTS IN AFRICA

Readings

  1. Cyrus E. Z. "Crossing Frontiers: Theoretical Innovations in the Study of Social Movements IPSR Vol. 29 No.5
  2. A. G. Frank and M. Fuentes. Nine thesis on Social Movements Internationally.
  1. Peter Waterman (1991). Social Movement Unionism. A New Model for a new world.
  2. …………..(1993). Globalisation, Civil Society, Solidarity: The Politics and Ethics of a World both Real and Universal.
  3. …………..(2001). Labour and Social Movements Confront a Globalised, Informatised, Capitalism.
  4. HBF. (ND). State and (UN) Civil Society Debate. Lagos.
  5. Jibrin Ibrahim and Y. Z. Ya'u (2010). The Left and the Human Rights Struggle in Nigeria. Chapters 1, 3, 7, and 8.
  6. Lloyd Sachikonye (ed.) (1991). Democracy, Civil Society and the State. Social Movements in Southern Africa.
  7. Monoranja, M. Partha, N. M. and Olle T. (eds.) (1998). Peoples Rights: Social Movements and the State in the Third World. Sage Publications London.
  8. Mahmood Mamdani and Ernest Wamba dia-Wamba (eds.) (1995). African Studies in Social Movements and Democracy. Codesria Book Series

DISCUSSION QUESTION

Literature Review Contains many theories on the subject of study. On the other hand theoretical framework is constructed with many related ideas. Form any Theoretical assumption and use not less than ten different texts to construct a theoretical framework.

Week 13: ALTERNATIVE ECONOMY, STATE AND BEYOND

Readings

  1. Andreas Pickel (ND). "Can Keynessianism Save the Neo-Liberal World Order? Trent University, Ontario, Canada.
  2. Charles Gore (2000). "The Rise and Fall of the Washington Consensus as a Paradigm for developing Countries". World Development Vol. 28 No. 5.
  3. Nansjorg Hear and Jan Priewe (2005). "Beyond the Washington Consensus: Macro-economic Politics for Development IPS No. 2.
  4. David Held (2006), Global Covenant: The Social Democratic Alternative to the Washington Consensus. Polity Press Cambridge.
  5. Christine, B. N. and James, H. M. (2000). "Conceptualising Resistance to Globalisation". Barry, K. G. (ed.) Globalisation and the Politics of Resistance. Palgrave London.
  6. Alex C. (2006). "Alternatives to Neo-Liberalism".
  7. David M. K. "Socialism and Global Neo-Liberalism".
  8. Elma Altvater. "Post Neo-Liberalism or Post-Capitalism? The Failure of Neo-Liberalism in the Financial Market Crisis".
  9. Learning from Asian Continent on bringing the State Back and from Latin America on Resisting Neo-Liberalism (set of readings will be provided for these).

DISCUSSION QUESTION

This week too is abnormal. Each student is expected to make selection of any text on African studies, but of significant theoretical contribution, to review in not more than two (2) pages computer-processed.

Week 14: CONCLUSION: CLOSING UP; DISCUSSION OF CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE INCLUDING CRITICISM – SELF CRITICISM; EATING AND CHATTING;

Additional Readings

*1. Niels S. C. Hahn (2008), "Neo-Liberal Imperialism and Pan African Resistance. Journal of World Systems Research". Vol. XIII No. 2.

*2. Simutary N. "Neo-Liberalism and the Relevance of Marxism to Africa: The Case of Zambia".

*3. Ray Kiely and Phil Marfleet (eds.) (1998). Globalisation and the Third World. Chapter one.

*4. Ash Narain Roy (1999). The Third World in the Age of Globalisation. Zed Books. London and New York. Chapters 5 and 6.

*5.    Joo H. (ND). Globalisation and the Nation-State: Dialectical and Contradictory Internationalisation.

6.    David Fasenfest. "Neo-Liberalism and the Capitalist World Order". (Online).

7.    Joachim Hirsch. "Globalisation and the Question of Democracy (Online).


8.    Christopher P. ( ). "Democracy, Markets and Capital: Are there Necessary Economic Limits to Democracy"? In David Held (ed.). Prospects for Democracy.


*9.    Arne T. T. and Meriken V. (eds.) (2001). Associational Life in African Cities: Popular Responses to the Urban Crisis. Nordiska African Institute.

*10.    Bjorn Beckman, Eva Hansson, Anders Sjogren (2001). Civil Society and Authoritarianism in the Third World. PODSU Stockhom University.


11.    Joe Howell and Jerry Pecrce (2001). Civil Society and Development: A Critical Explanations. Lynne and Rienner. United Kingdom.

12.    John Ehrenberg. "Beyond Civil Society".

13.    Bjorn Beckman. " Interest Groups and the Construction of Democratic Space".

14.    Chris Allen (1997). "Who Needs Civil Society". ROAPE No. 73.

*15.    Claude Ake (2001). Democracy and Development in Africa. Spectrum Books Ibadan.

*16.    Claude Ake (1994). Democratisation of Disempowerment in Africa. CASS Occasional Monograph No. 1.


17.    Chris Harman. "The State and Capitalism Today". (Online).

18.    Ron Tabor. "The Marxist Theory of State (Online).

19.    John Braithwaite (1981). "The Myth of Social Class and Criminality Reconsidered". American Sociological Review Vol. 45 No. 1.

20.    Franz V. (1996). "From Violence to Justice and Security in Cities". Environment and Urbanisation". Vol. 8 No. 1.

21.    Peter Anyang Nyongo (ed.) (1987). Popular Struggles for Democracy in Africa. Zeb Books London and New Jersy.

Requirements

  • Readings that are underlined are required texts to be read and reviewed by students for class discussion.
  • Those marked with star under the additional readings are also important.
  • Questions that are raised at the end of each topic are guide for study by students. They are also for discussion.
  • The teaching of the course is by a seminar form. However, the weekly readings of the relevant texts is as important as the final written examination.
  • Therefore, students are expected to read all assigned materials, attend all classes and participate actively in discussions.
  • If you are not going to attend any class tell me before the time. But when you return must submit work for that week.
  • Assessment of students is based on end of Semester examination (60%) and Continues Assessment (40%).
  • The CA grades:
    • Attendance/class work/participation        -    20%
    • Course Research Paper                -    10%
    • Review of any text on African studies        -    5%
    • Working Group Discussion/Literature

    Review – Theoretical Framework Nexus    -    5%

In order to purify learning and research I have to take strict disciplinary action against any student who is found on plagiarism. In our work we will be analyzing the thoughts, arguments and evidence of others, to reformulate them to develop our own ideas. So, you must not copy or paraphrase some one's work and present it as your own. Don't come across idea of one writer in another text by another writer and claim you got it from the original text. Finally, all texts consulted should be properly acknowledged. These are elements of integrity of a scholar.
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Social Voilence Called Boko Haram in Northern Nigeria: Some Thoughts

My earlier conceptualization of Boko Haram (available on my blogspot) is that it is an Islamic Social Movement which pulled around it the New Urban mass in Maiduguri and other towns/cities in that zone. Secondly, I argued that, unlike other similar movements before now, the Boko Haram does not have a vision and or a philosophy to capture state power and reconstruct it.

Indeed that history has disappeared, but another one with a new violence which some people still referred as Boko Haram is now on course.

The insistence without thinking, of referring to the recent violence as Boko Haram, inspite of differences in form, character, style and target with the earlier one in Maiduguri, is bound to raise in critical minds, fundamental questions.

So, how do we conceptualize Boko Haram as a process or social process, not merely in linguistic term.

The growth of cities in Africa, accompanied by expansion of the urban poor and masses, in the last fourty years has reminded me of what made the Communist Manifesto a popular reading in nineteenth century Europe. The reflections, by theoretical guide, of Karl Marx and Friedrick Engels in the Manifesto of Communist Party, are well documented by historians, observers and analysts of the development of Europe in the eighteenth and nineteenth century. Works by Thompson E. P. (1963; 1971; 1978), George R. (1969), Dobb M. (1946) and Webb R. K. (1969) are few examples.

Indeed, the development in today's Northern Nigeria is distinct from that of Europe. In Europe was the period of the early development of capitalism. Yes! Characterized by dislocation of society, growth and expansion of cities, poverty, unemployment, etc. Varied reactions in form of riots, protests, all kind of disturbances including 'attack and ran', 'hit and ran' burning of churches, markets, and houses of the rich, etc.

In big towns/cities in Northern Nigeria as in some others in developing countries, the same experience but of different historical development is very common today. The history of growth of cities in Northern Nigeria is of colonization. Either as trading posts or administrative centres of colonial administration. Subsequently, they attracted the rural populations who migrated to the urban centres to live there. In the 1970s there was Government programme of industrialization and agricultural transformation. The former resulted in formation of mass of wage earners who live permanently in the urban areas. The latter through a land reform Decree and many larger-scale farm projects pushed more rural people to the urban centres.

During the same period there was expansion of education of all sectors. Thus, increasing the population of the cities. The informal sector of the economy had expanded too.

A development was set for urban crimes, organized violence, labour disputes, etc. However, capitalism of that era was more humane. State and capital could spend part of the surplus to provide welfare services. This facilitated for social control of the urban struggle.

Towards the end of the Twentieth Century through the Twenty-first Century, according to Robert Reich (2007) capitalism has become of big business and super. It must take away everything and will not give anything. It imposed market economic system everywhere in the developing world.

The New Economic System has become like colonization (Stephen S. 1998). Small capital cannot compete. Both traditional and modern local industries have collapsed. New type of industries which cannot absorb young graduates from tertiary institutions dominate. A new wage system which is like a slavery becomes the law of the work relations, etc.

The consequences are too much of unemployment. Employment is not a guarantee against poverty. Homeless and street boys have increased massively. They take over the major cities. These are the boys whom somewhere I have called neo-liberal youths (M. M. Yusif, 2011).

Therefore, the cities in Northern Nigeria today, have become like the city of London in the Eighteenth Century. With those kind of homeless and street youths and of the same behavior and way of life. As well as the same reactions to social relations of the economy in the society. Perhaps the only difference is as Thompson E. P. (1978) said, in London in those years there was class struggle without classes.

Could that be said in today's urban struggle in Northern Nigeria's cities? No! London in the eighteenth century was in transition to capitalism. But, Nigeria today is unquestionably capitalist. That is the reason why the behavior of the urban youths is not only against property, but also against the state, seen as the representative of the dominant class.

Again, super capitalism has made democracy superficial. No democracy is recognized except market democracy (Prezzorski, 2000), which promotes big business. This kind of democracy does not negotiate differences with other interests because it must take everything.

In view of the foreseen consequences – political and economic – of neo-liberal globalization, Ash N. R. (1999) predicted that twenty-first century would be a century of chaos and violence in human history. Even in the history of Europe, Robert C. (2003) noted that "the worst times in European history were in the fourteenth century, during and after the Hundred years war, and in the first half of the twentieth century. The twenty-first century may be worse than any of these" (Sic).

Thus, the Boko Haram in Northern Nigeria is first a social violence which arises from the internal contradictions of neo-liberal capitalist development in the region. In class society this kind of social violence may be an ideology and a political tendency of the oppressed social group who could not be heard or listened to get into dialogue with them. Furthermore, their social characteristics as homeless, street boys, unemployed, employed but still poor, petty owners who lost their properties, etc. placed them in a category of people who could not build or receive ideas of political struggle with the enemy, except just meaningless violence. They are not anarchists. Not syndacalists. Neither Islamic Fundamentalists.

Now, what are we going to say about many unspecified, uncleared and sentimental questions raised about this social violence? Such questions include:

  1. That, are they sponsored by foreign interests?
  2. Is this violence to weaken Northern Nigeria with intention to cause the breakdown of Nigeria as one national territory?
  3. Is it a religious violence to create an Islamic state in Nigeria?

This is too simplistic. From the beginning it would be better to start from the internal dynamics, which may produce this kind of violence. I want believe that this development in Northern Nigeria is similar in many ways with what happens in Nairobi and other cities in Latin America.

In Nairobi, this youth's actions had started many years ago and had forced alliance of the elites against KANU which resulted in a new democracy in Kenya. The youth were celebrating the new democracy when the old practices of the KANU was coming back to scene. Now, they had launched another violence and are setting the elites again to accept rules of law in management of peoples affairs.

However, the social consequences of this kind of violence would of course be determined by internal dynamics and relations of forces. In a class dominated society, there are multiplicities of interests and each tries to realize its case. An internal may ally with external to win. Forces of disintegration may wish to seize the available opportunities. Islamic ideologues may not be left behind to capture trend of events in its favour.

It is very important to stress the point here that the said social violence in Northern Nigeria is an ideology or a political tendency of the new oppressed groups produced by neo-liberal economy. They are not clear about what they want, so in a class dominated society many other interests may want influence and or control them to achieve their aim.

This is a preliminary research outline for further investigation.


 

M. M. Yusif

Department of Political Science,

Bayero University, Kano – Nigeria

May, 2012
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SEMESTER ASSIGNMENTSECOND SEMESTER 2010/2011 SESSION POL 4313 POL 3314 POL 2204

BAYERO UNIVERSITY, KANO

FACULTY OF SOCIAL AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

The distinction between Theoretical Framework and Literature Review in construction of knowledge is indisputable but the distance between the two is doubtful as any literature review is an assessment of many theories on the subject under study and theoretical assumption is constructed with available literature relevant to the assumption.

Subsequently, from methodological point of view a literature review contains many theoretical postulations.

Each seminar in all the above three courses is to formulate a theoretical assumption relevant to the course offered. For example:-

  • Differences in language and religion stand out among the factors that generate ethnic conflict and tension.
  • Shift of global production to service-oriented changes the patterns of global trade.
  • Commodity production, of exchange value leads to development of capitalism.

These are examples of theoretical assumptions derived from POL 4313, POL 3314 and POL 2204 respectively.

So, each seminar from the above three levels is to formulate a theoretical assumption similar to above. But note that a theoretical assumption may be of a description type; paradigmatic; abstractly theoretical; classificatory; or interpretative.

Then you are to search for relevant materials to construct the assumption to become like a theoretical framework. In other words it is like building a literature review on the assumption.

The following are to be observed:-

  1. If you are ten not less than ten different texts to be used. If fifteen as in POL 2204 not less than the number of students in the seminar.
  2. Presentation must be according to standard i.e. to acknowledge all the references used e.g. (Mandel 1975: 20).
  3. Each report is not to be less than 4 pages computer processed.
  4. Each seminar is to submit the assumption for approval this week and then 2 weeks to finish and submit.
  5. When submitted reports would be exchanged between the seminars for review and discussion.
  6. All references must be listed as References at the end of the work.

Good Luck

M.M. YUSIF

31/10/11
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REMARKS AT “M. M. YUSIF DEBATE” HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2011

DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

BAYERO UNIVERSITY, KANO

Good Evening Everybody! As I'm listening to the speakers and looking the audience I was thinking on challenges facing University System in Nigeria.

I mean a university system which is not dominated by sycophancy; not system with scholars searching for fame, and for power, and indeed not of scholarship as market and as careerism.

But university as a centre of learning and research and for development of human society.

I am talking of a university community where ideas are forming, circulating and quarrelling or battling with each other, making the community lively.

This brought closer to me as examples the University of Mopotu in Mozambique; University of Daresalam Tanzania; University of Makerere in Uganda; and Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria – Nigeria; in the 1980s.

Bayero University, Kano too was not left behind. If you were a man of ideas, from the gates of the two campuses, you would start coming into battle of ideas.

The students of B.U.K., divided into ideological camps never agreed with each other, whether in classrooms or outside classrooms.

That made B.U.K. to be lively for teaching and research – both for students and the lecturers.

Indeed, in B.U.K. in those years, development of knowledge (whether in social or natural sciences, in engineering or in medicine), became a real social criticism.

However, with interference from outside, in students campus politics, the differences between students, founded on ideas and resolved by ideas, became to be resolved by violence.

This set a continuos decline which is still not reversed. It is the responsibility of the students to turn down the problem by themselves.

Let me advise the students of B.U.K. that the history of development of knowledge – from Plato to date – shows that students disagreement over ideas – including ideas from their teachers – is what has produced excellence in centres of learning and research. Otherwise university education will go away.

So, here I throw the challenge to you. Mine is a little push to encourage you. This is it as an annual debate starting from this year – with prices and certificates to be issued to all the participants.

Thank you. Well done.

M.M. Yusif

November, 2011
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POL. 3314: POLITICS OF GLOBALISATION AND DEVELOPMENT

BAYERO UNIVERSITY, KANO

FACULTY OF SOCIAL AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

INSTRUCTOR: M. M. YUSIF

mmyusuf58@yahoo.com

mmyusuf07@gmail.com

polbuk@yahoo.com

http://www.mmyusuf.blogspot.com

Introduction

There is no doubt that globalisation is the most commonly used concept since from the last decade of the twentieth century to date. Not only in social sciences, even in others it has become the centre of discourse, generally when it comes to the question of development of human society. Particularly, there are scholarly debates and competing explanations over the impact of changes in the international economy i.e. globalisation on the society. Reflecting on this issue there is abundance of literature, precisely from 1990s, which shows to light how globalisation is a set of changes in the international economy which creates a single world market and which brings to a fore the services sector, service production and trade in services with wider implications for a new development agenda in both developed and developing countries.

Orientation of the Course

The official title of the course is "politics of development and under-development". Initially it was conceived as understanding the impact of imperialism on development of Third World Countries. Over the last ten years the course is turned to a study of globalisation and development. Since globalisation is a very vast field with many issues and perspectives, every academic session a different subject and framework is chosen and developed for purpose of teaching. In the last five years my attention goes to WTO – linked to development. In the last academic session (2009/2010) the title of the course became "Politics of Trade and Development".

In this academic session the subject-matter is "Politics of globalisation and development". But the emphasis in this year which departed from the previous year is the WTO regime and international trade in services.

The growth of the global service sector, which now turns more than 60% of global, trade is like 'internal revolution' in the structure of the development of capitalism and re-orientation in its interest.

Like a wild cat in town big capitalist actors began to use violence in order to create market for the expanding service industry.

Through re-organisation of global trade governance institutions a less violent means is found to achieve the same objective. Thus, when WTO was delivered, for the first time in the history of multilateral trade relations, on agreement on trade in services came to life. It is called General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS).

The GATS contains rules and regulations which govern trade in services. Generally, international economic relations are power relations. That is why globalisation itself is naturally a conflict phenomenon because it increases conflict whether in trade or in investment /financial transaction/movement of natural people, etc. These bring out the conflicts in and of globalisation.

This is what is called politics of globalisation. The objective of this course is just to understand this politics with reference to multilateral trade in services.

We would apply theoretical perspectives as search light to understand this development. The idea of politics in this context is to say conflict and co-operation between similar or diverse interest groups to attain self-interest, regional or any other group developmental goal. In another level politics would be used as Wright Qwency sees it "as the art of influencing, manipulating or controlling major groups in the world so as to advance the purposes of some against the opposition of others". Gramscian perspective of what constitutes politics; politics of globalisation in particular will feature. Moreso, how is the functioning of international institutions, such as the WTO, and how legistimate?

The course intended to introduce students to issues on globalisation, WTO and multilateral trade in services, the falling apart of the system and the alternatives.

Topics and Readings

  1. General Introduction: Overview of the course; Topics and Readings; Course Requirements; aid for learning and research; assessment of the teaching programme by students; socialisation among students; other things; division of students into seminars.

Essential Readings

  1. Paul Hirst, The future of Political Science
  2. Shun Yun Mo, "Political Science at the edge of chaos? The paradigmatic shift".
  3. Mairo C. and Rosanna D. "E. Research: An Introduction to Online Political Science for Beginners and Skeptics".
  4. Stephen V. F. "Guide to Methods for Students of Political Science". Website.
  5. M. M. Yusif. "Principles of Teaching and Learning in Classes of mmyusif". Website
  6. M. M. Yusif. How to Write Small-Research Project. Website.
  7. M. M. Yusif. Education and Transformation of Individuals as Students. Website.

Dispute On: The Course Content as Political Science

2. Basic Concepts: Globalisation; WTO; Trade; Trade in Services; Development; Neo-Liberalism;

Essential Readings

  1. Robert Cox, A. Perspective on Globalisation. In James H. Mittleman (ed.). Globalisation. Critical reflections.
  2. Fredric Jameson, Globalisation and Political Strategy. NLR No.4 (2000).
  3. Hugo Radice. Taking Globalisation Seriously
  4. Gillis M. and Others. Economics of Development. W.W. Norton and Company, New York and London. 1976
  5. Gilbert Rist, The History of Development: From Western Origin to Global Forth
  6. Susan George, "The Neo-Liberal Gospel".

    Dispute on: Is Globalisation a Result of Unification of Economic Process Across Nation-States?

3.    Globalisation and Politics: Theoretical Perspectives

Essential Readings

  1. Suzanne Berger. "Globalisation and Politics". MIT IPC Globalisation Working Paper 2005.
  2. Samir Amin. "Economic Globalism and Political Universalism: Conflicting Issues". Journal of World System Research Vol. 6 (5)
  3. Zoran Stefannovic. "Globalisation: Theoretical Perspectives, Impacts and Institutional Response of the Economy
  4. Held D. and Others (1999). Global Transformation: Politics, Economics and Culture. Read Introduction
  5. M. M. Yusif (2011). WTO Mock Summit: Briefing Paper No.4. Website.
  6. Stephen T.II, "Toward a Postmodern Prince? The Battle in Seattle as a Moment in the New Politics of Globalisation". Millennium 29 (1) 2000.
  7. B. K. Gills (ed.), Globalisation and the Politics of Resistance st. Martins, 2000
  8. William Robinson and Jerry Harris, "Towards a Global Ruling Class? Globalisation and the Transnational Capitalist Class". Science and Society (2000).
  9. Jacques Harsh, "Understanding Global Capitalism: Passive Revolution and Double Movement in the era of globalisation". American Review of Political Economy Vol. 4 (2) 2006
  10. William Robinson. "Gramsci and Globalisation: from Nation-state to Transnational. Hegemony". Critical Review of International Social and Political Philosophy vol.8 (4) 2005.
  11. GTN, Global Trade Negotiations: Trade and Conflict.
  12. Wright, Q. "The Study of International Relations. Appleton Century Crift, New York

    DISPUTE ON: Using Many Theoretical Perspectives Debate the Idea that Trade Reduces or Promotes Conflict

4. Globalisation- Development Nexus: Competing Explanations

Essential Readings

  1. Matthe M. T. "Development Economics in the Wake of the Washington Consensus: From Smith to Smith Screens" IPSA vol. 29 No. 5
  2. John Rapley, "New Directions in the Political Economy of Development". ROAPE No. 62
  3. Frons J. S. Beyond the Impass: New Directions in Development Theory".
  4. Gilbert Rist, The History of Development Chapter 1, 4 and 7.
  5. Arthur M. Neo-Liberalism or Democracy? Economic Strategy, Markets and Alternatives for the 21st Century. Chapter 2.
  6. Brett E. A. The World Economy Since the War: The Politics of Uneven Development. Chapter 2
  7. John M. "Capitalism, Imperialism and Development: A Marxist Discussion
  8. Deepak Nayyar, Development Through Globalisation. Research Paper No. 2000/29
  9. CARTSS, Globalisation and Modernity: Central Questions.
  10. David Held and Others, op. cit. pgs. 1 – 31
  11. Joseph Stiglitz, Making Globalisation Work. Chapter 2.
  12. Togba. Nah Tipotch, "Globalisation and Development". In D. W. Nabudere (ed.) Globalisation and Post-colonial African States.
  13. Bob Sutcliffe, The Place of Development in Theories of Imperialism and Globalisation.
  14. Adebayo Olukoshi, "Globalisation, Equity and Development: Some Reflections on the African Experience
  15. Martin Khor, "Globalisation, Implications for Development.

Dispute on: Competing Explanations on Globalisation and Development

5. Globalisation, Trade and Development Perspectives

Essential Readings

  1. Sheila P. How Developing Countries Trade: The Institutional Constraints. Chapters 1 and 15
  2. Mark W. and Dean B. "The Relative Impact of Trade Liberalisation on Developing Countries". Capr June, 2002
  3. Robert B. Z. "Globalisation, Trade, and Economic Security". US Trade Representative, 2002.
  4. Yusuf Bangura, "Underdevelopment and the Politics of Sierraleone Trade Relations". Conference Paper. 1984
  5. Joseph Stiglitz op. cit. Chapter 6.
  6. Paul Humpton, "The Marxist Policy on Trade". Workers Libaty. (Journal)
  7. Erik S. Reiner, How Rich Countries Got Rich and Why Poor Countries Stay Poor.
  8. Peter I. O. "International Trade and Economic Development: Theory, History and Contemporary Realities". Conference Paper.
  9. Robert Gilpin, Global Political Economy: Understanding the International Economic Order. Chapter 8.
  10. Adam Smith, The Wealth of Nation

    DISPUTE ON:     Debating Free Trade Visa-vis Development and Under-Development

6. Global Perspective and growth of the Service sector

Essential Readings

  1. Ernest Mandel, Late Capitalism. Verso. London. 1980
  2. Thomas I. Palley, "A Labor Perspectives on Globalisation". IPS No. 1 (2008).
  3. Kyoko Sheridan, "Softnomisation – The Growth of the Service Sector in Japan". Journal of Contemporary Asia vol. 14 No.4 (1984).
  4. Robert Reich, Super-capitalism. ICOn Books, 2007.

    DISPUTE ON:     Discussion of "Berge" Economics as a New Global Production Model

7. WTO and International Trade in Services: From the Starting Point to Aggressive Stage.

Essential Readings

  1. Harold S. and Andras I. (eds.). World Trade After the Uruguay Round. Chapter 2
  2. John H. Jackson, The World Trading System: Law and Policy of International Economic Relations. Chapters 1 and 12
  3. Graham, D. The Free Trade Adventure, Zed-Books, London and New York, Chapters 4 and 9
  4. Stephen Woolcock, "The Multilateral Trading System into the New Millennium (eds.). Trade Politics: International, Domestic and Regional Perspective.
  5. Richard E. M. "Africa in the Global Economy". Chapter 3
  6. WTO: Understanding the WTO. Chapter 1
  7. Robert Wolf, "The World Trade Organisation". In Brian Hocking and Steven Meguire (ed.). op.cit.

    DISPUTE ON:     Free Trade Proponents Generally Argue that Liberalisation Brings Development. But Would Trade and Liberalisation of Services Constitute Development Especially for Developing Countries

8. WTO Regime: Rules, Agreements and Issues on Trade in Services

Essential Readings

  1. WTO (1993), The Legal Texts
  2. WTO (2006), The General Agreement on Trade in Services. WTO Websitre
  3. UNDP (2008). Making Trade Work for People. New York, Earthscan Publication
  4. Harry G. B. (1994). "GATS: The Uruguay Round Accord on International Trade ad Investment in Services. The World Economy vol. 17 (3)
  5. Martin Khor, Globalisation and the South.
  6. John H. Jackson, op. cit. Chapter 2
  7. WTO, Understanding WTO. Chapter 2

DISPUTE ON: Making an Assessment of the Provisions of GATS

9. WTO Trading System: Implications for Development of Developing Countries

Essential Readings

  1. Joseph Stiglitz, op. cit. Chapter 3
  2. Nicola B. and Chanida C. "Ten Years of the WTO: Subordinating Development to Free Trade". IPS vol. 2 (2003).
  3. Robin Broad et al, "Development: The Market is not Enough. In Jeffrey A. K., International Political Economy: Perspectives on Global Power and Wealth.
  4. Martin Khor, "A Perspective on Globalisation and its Implication for Developing Countries".
  5. Martin Khor, Globalisation: Implications for Development Policy.
  6. Irogba K. "Globalisation and the Development of the Third World" Journal of Third World Studies, 2005
  7. Arghri Emmanuel, Unequal Exchange: A Study of the Imperialism of Trade
  8. M. B. Brown, Essays on Imperialism. Chapter III
  9. Samir Amin, Imperialism and Unequal Development. Chapter 6
  10. Vickey R. and Robin T. Political Change and Under-development.
  11. Ibrahim M. J. The Effect of Globalisation on the Development of Under-developed Countries

DISPUTE ON:     GATT/WTO Regime and Development Benefits to Third World Countries – Any Two Contrasting Case Studies

10. Alternative Global Trade Perspectives: Doha and Beyond Doha

Essential Readings

  1. WTO, Understanding the WTO. Chapter 5
  2. WTO, Doha Work Programme
  3. Marting Khor, "Trade and Development: The Multilateral Trading System and Recent Development in the WTO". TWN (2004).
  4. Mark Halle, Where are we in the Doha Round.
  5. Dilip K. D., "The Doha Round of multilateral Trade negotiations causal factor behind the failure in Cancun.
  6. Auditya M. "Services in a development round proposals for overcoming inertia" In Richard N. (2008). Trade, Doha and development: A window into the issues.
  7. M. M. Yusuf, "The Recent Development in the WTO" mimeo 2009
  8. M. M. Yusuf, WTO mock summit briefing paper (2009)
  9. Basudeb G. K. The WTO Developing Countries and the Doha Development Agenda: Prospects and Challenges for trade - led growth – various
  10. Richard N. Trade, Doha and Development: A window into the issue. Various
  11. Rorden W. "The problematic of trade and development beyond the Doha round"
  12. James T. G. "The High stakes of WTO Reform".
  13. The warwick commission, the multilateral trade regime: which way forward?
  14. Lauren C. H., "Latin America: Building an alternative to free trade"
  15. Graham D. op. cit chapter 12

    DISPUTE ON: The warwick commission report: MTS which way forward?

11.    CONCLUSION I

  • Theoretical conclusion
  • Reports on semester group work
  • Response papers on the group projects.

12.    CONCLUSION II

  • Classroom experience
  • Eating and chatting

Joint Readings

  1. Mate F. "Impact of trade liberalisation on the environment in developing countries: The case of Nigeria". MPRA paper
  2. Emmanuel C. O. and Agatha E., " Globalisation and Economic Development: The Nigerian Experience".
  3. Pad raing C. "Constructing Alternative to SAP in Africa". ROAPC No. 78
  4. Alan V. D. Globalisation Bystanders: Does Trade liberalisation hurl countries that do not participate?
  5. World Bank, East Asia: Trade and Investment: regional and global gains from liberalisation.
  6. Diana I. Gimba, "The WTO and the Third World countries". ECPER vol. 5(3)
  7. Maude B. "The last frontiers: GATS". ROAPC No 58
  8. Okamota Y. "Impact of trade and FDI liberalisation policies on the Malaysian economy". Developing Economies vol. 32 (4)
  9. Walden Bello, Deglobalisation: Ideas for a new world order
  10. Walden Bello. The future in the balance: Essays on Globalisation and resistance
  11. Harry Shutt, "A new democracy" Alternative to a bankrupt world order chapter 4
  12. Dalip S. "An Alternative to Globalisation" In the Third World Resurgence No. 74
  13. David V. and Jeff F. Debate on the case for and against free trade
  14. John Madeley, Hungry for Trade: How the poor pay for free trade. Chapter 3
  15. Johan Galtung, "Ten theses on development Theory, Practice and Methodology. In Inge Amundeen (ed.) Knowledge and Development: Proceedings of the NKU Annual Conference 1994 University of Tromso.
  16. Michael, Z. "Global Governance and Legitacy Problems".
  17. Garth L. P. "Emerging Markets – Emerging Powers. Changing Parameters for Global Economic Governance". IPS 2/2005.
  18. Heikki, P. Democratising Globalisation: The Leverage of the Tabin Tax

Course Requirement

  • The teaching of the course is by giving lectures. Each topic is expected to be covered in one lecture period. When the duration of the semester is against my plan some topics may be combined for treatment. However, the last 30minutes of each period will be dispute, agreement and disagreement on some issues here identified.
  • Assessment of students is based on end of semester examination (70%) and continuous assessment (30%). The CA will be determined by obligatory weekly assignment; active participation in discussing the assignment; a group small research project; research project response paper; a supervised test; ICT usage; attendance;
  • At the end of the semester each seminar will submit a report on classroom experience
  • There are many teaching aids on my website which are recommended to enhance the capacity of students in ICT, communicative writing, etc.
  • In order to purify the system of learning and research I have to take strict disciplinary action against any student who is found on plagiarism. To avoid plagiarism you must not copy or paraphrase someone else work and present it as your own. Again, all texts consulted should be properly acknowledged. The penalty is that any work found to be plagiarism will receive zero. And any student found in two cases of plagiarism will result in being assessed "00" in the overall CA on the course.

My watch word in last year's teaching is "whatever ideas received from me or from text books given to read are not correct and final. You must challenge and criticize them in order to keep learning". In this academic session is "Education for transformation of individuals as students. Get ready. Each of you is going to show and tell us that he/she has changed, from the time we have started to the end of the course and beyond.

M.M. Yusif
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POL. 4301: MILITARY AND SOCIETYACADEMIC YEAR 2011/2012

DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

BAYERO UNIVERSITY, KANO

NIGERIA

INSTRUCTOR: M.M. YUSIF

mmyusif@yahoo.com

mmyusif07@gmail.com

polbuk@yahoo.com

http://www.mmyusif.blogspot.com


 

INTRODUCTION

In the last 25 years there have been deep structural changes in various local, national and even global settings. From the military angle there have been reorganization of the military role and missions, thereby affecting the relationship of Armed forces and society.

The changes are accompanied by paradigm shift in the study of military affairs. Subsequently the Science of military becomes not a monopoly of political science, as it becomes a subject of study in history, sociology, law, international relations and other social science disciplines

Our focus in this academic year is on the relationship of Armed Forces and Society. Especially as what changes the military of various countries are going through in order to cope with its legitimate responsibilities.

We are going to study these changes both from theory and practice perspectives. A comparative study will be made, selecting countries from across the globe to analyse and assess the military abilities or otherwise to change to cope with reality of neo-liberal society.

COURSE OUTLINE

  1. General Introduction
  2. Key Concepts: Armed Forces/Military; Society;
  3. Military and Society: Theoretical Perspectives
  4. Constructing Military – Society Relation in Neo-Liberal Society
  5. Armed Forces in Post-Modern Society: Is there a Post-Modern Military?
  6. New Military Formation New Civil-Military Relation
  7. Information Technology and Military Affairs
  8. Regional Case Studies: Comparative Analysis – USA; UK; South Africa; Nigeria; Russia; Indonesia; Canada; Brazil
  9. Theoretical Conclusion
  10. Conclusion: Report on Seminar Projects and Response Papers; Critical Comments on Classromm Experience; Eating and Chating.

RECOMMENDED READINGS

  1. Margaret Stacey Pgs. 134 – 141
  2. David Chuter, Defence Transformation. ISS Monograph No. 49 (2000)
  3. Anthony Forster, Armed Forces and Society in Europe Pgs. 1 – 18
  4. Charles C. Moskos and others (2000) The Post-Modern Military
  5. Timothy E. The Armed Forces and Society: A Framework for Analysis.
  6. A. F. Klimenko, "Globalisation and its Impact on Military Politics and Strategy
  7. Martin Shaw (2001). "The Development of 'Common – Risk" Society: A Theoretical Overview
  8. Christopher Dandeker (2001). "The Military in Democratic Societies: New Times and New Patterns of Civil-Military Relations"
  9. Bradford Booth and others. "Are Post-Cold War Militaries Postmodern?
  10. Anthony Forster. "A Critique of the Post-modern Military Thesis: The European Challenge
  11. Anthony Forster: "The Postmodern Military: The Irony of Strengthening Defence.
  12. No Name. The Post Fordist Military
  13. No Name. IT and Global Ruling Class
  14. Max Boot. "The Paradox of Military Technology"
  15. Castells M. "Information Technology, Globalisation and Social Formation".
  16. Paul T. M. Network Centric Warfare: Coalition Operations in the Age of US Military Primacy
  17. Gerald Scheneider. War in the Era of Globalisation
  18. Phillip H. Post-modernity Goes to War
  19. Michael E. "From Kadesh to Kandahar: Military Theory and the Future of War".
  20. Samuel P. H. "The Soldier and the State: The Theory and Politics of Civil-Military Relation".
  21. Albright D. "A Comparative Conceptualisation of Civil-Military Relation". World Politics. Vol. 44 No. 3
  22. Richard H. K. "The Erosion of Civilian Control of the Military in the USA Today. Naval War College Review Vol. 48 No. 3
  23. John F. B. "The Indonesian Military as a Professional Organization: Criteria and Ramification for Reform".
  24. John A. W. "The Postmodern Military Reconsidered". In Charles C. M. op-cit.
  25. Wilfred V. B. "Re-nationalisation of Military Strategy? New Challenging Global Environment". In Jurgen K. and Jean C. op-cit.
  26. Chunakhra G. M. The Militarisation of Politics and Society. Chapter 1
  27. Gruta S. "Theoretical Postulation: A Twin Van in Understanding Military and Politics.
  28. Janowitz Z. The Proffessional Army.
  29. Samir Amin. "The Alternative to the Neo-liberal System of Globalisation and Militarism: Imperialism Today and the Hegemonic Offensive of the United States".
  30. Stevan Mair. "The New World of Privatised Violence". IPS 2/2003.
  31. Martin Shaw. "War and Globality: The Role and Character of War in the Global Transition".
  32. Mary Kaldor. "Beyond Militarism Arms Races and Arms Control".
  33. Charles M. "What Ails the All-Volunteer Force: An Institutional Perspective".
  34. Carl Boggs. "Overview: Globalisation and the New Militarism". New Political Science. Vol. 24 No. 1 (2002).
  35. Carl C. and Charles K. (1997). "Post-Cold War US Military Expenditure in the Context of World Spending Trends".
  36. Mick Drake (1997). The Question of Military Technology: A Pocalypties or Politics?
  37. Pita O. Agbese. "The Politics of Stable Civil-Military Relations".
  38. Rod Hague and Martin Harro (2004) Comparative Government and Politics. Macmillan. Hampshire England.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

* Evaluation of students will be based on end of the semester examination (70%) and Continuous Assessment (30%).

* The last 30 minutes of each lecture period will be discussion, debate, or any other thing I may come up with.

* On the CA students will be required to do so many things:

  1. Weekly assignment: this is as important as the final examination. Any student who failed to do one will miss all the points earmarked for class work.
  2. A Group Small research project.
  3. Research project response paper.
  4. Working Group discussion would be held.
  5. A supervised Test
  6. Students are expected to fully participate in class discussions
  7. Class attendance is a compulsory requirement


 

*     In order to build competence and skills in work, you would be expected to improve on usage of ICT for learning.

* You would also be programmed to cultivate expressions in poetic compositions. So, poetry writing will be revived to capture self-expressions of the issues we are going to treat on the course.

*     The relationship between students on the one hand and students with the teacher on the other hand determine a successful programme for development of knowledge. So, between you talk to each other. With your teacher, there is no fear. I am your facilitator.

* All other things on the requirement of class work in your 300 Level also applied here:

  1. For example, plagiarism and any other academic dishonesty will not be tolerated.
  2. Secondly, active participation by asking questions, making observation and comments is the best way of learning which each student must try to use.
  3. Thirdly, there are on my blogspot-Online, many different materials showing how to improve quality of learning and research. So, you are required to access them.

* Finally, my watch word in this academic year is as in 2010/2011 session i.e. education is for self-transformation. So, watch yourself, what is changing in you. You are going to tell us.

POL. 4301: SMALL RESEARCH PROJECT TOPICS 2010/2011

S/N 

SEMINAR OF 

TITLE 

1. 

Abubakar S. Tanbai 

Military as a Province of Accumulation of Capital

2. 

Adamu Adamu Alhassan 

The Modern Army and Society: Mode of Recruitment, Function, Structure and Orientation 

3. 

Ahmad Tijjani 

Militarism as the Silent Norm in the Globalised Society 

4. 

Alkassim Kabir Imam 

What are the Characteristics of a Modern Military

5. 

Aminu Bello 

Usefulness and Values of Military in the Society 

6. 

Aremu Lateef 

Mass Conscripted Army: A Critical Analysis 

7. 

Basiru Kabiru 

The Role of IT in Transformation of Military Operation 

8. 

Charles Umaru Zubairu

The Rise of Post-Modern Military in Third World Countries 

9. 

Kingsley O. O. 

Conceptualising the Military from a Modernist View Point 

10. 

Mansur Abdullahi 

The Military – Society Relations: Historical Perspectives 

11. 

Maryam Sunusi Sani 

The Transformation of Armed Forces from Modern to Postmodern

12. 

Muhammad Ismail Salisu 

The Military, Civil Society and Democracy in Developing Countries: Prospect for the Future 

13. 

Muhammad Rilwan Abdussalam 

Volunteer Force Army: An Institution or an Occupation 

14.

Muhyideen Tiamiyu 

Armed Forces and Class Tendency in Modern Society

15. 

Nurudeen Mohammed 

Post Modernism and Military Organisation 

16. 

Patricia Moji Lewu 

Politics and Military in Modern Society: The Case of Nigeria 

17. 

Salisu Lawan Ahmad 

Militarism as a Concept Comes from Neo-liberal Society. Can Neo-liberal Society Evolve Without Militarism?

18. 

Shehu Usman Ali 

The Concepts of Military and Militarism 

19. 

Sufyan Tanko Dahiru 

Analysis of Changing Military Formation in Modern Society 

20. 

Zainab Umar Sanusi

The Relevance of Military in the Society 

POL. 3314

SUMMARY OF RESULT

2010/2011

A………………..16    Students

B………………..57    Students

C………………..60    Students

D………………..17    Students

E………………..39    (4 are CO Students)

F………………..09    (2 are CO Students)

Total    =====195    Students
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