Theorising a theory of Ubuntu – the divide between individualism compared to a socialistic understanding of African society

Abstract

This paper seeks to examine Ubuntu from the socialistic perspective that is embraced by most Africans against Maslow’s individualistic hierarchy of needs. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs encourages individualism that often fosters capitalistic demands in western countries whereas in the African continent the theory of Ubuntu by Mbigi is rooted in the Five Fingers approach and provides a socialistic outlook towards life. The principle of Ubuntu is akin to socialism where there is a communal outlook to living. This is long before Karl Marx spoke about socialism. The Ubuntu theory is based on the principles of caring and sharing so that it can meet the needs of communities and nation states. Discussions in this paper are based on the Collective Five Finger theory that has five values which are the cornerstones of Ubuntu. Each value represents a finger and all of them form a strong hand that can stand against trials and tribulations. Previously published African literature was reviewed to expose a solid stance that Ubuntu has on socialism. There is an increasing concern of whether Ubuntu is still relevant in this era of globalisation and how it impacts individuals, thus the rise of alternative terms such as Black Tax. Black Tax is a fast-growing trend in the black community that seeks to oust the original idea of Ubuntu. The Ubuntu policies need to be taught at schools and extended to the private sector.

How to reference using ASWNet style:
Khan, S. & Ntakana, U. M. (2023). Theorising a theory of ubuntu – the divide between individualism compared to a socialistic understanding of African society. African Journal of Social Work, 13(4), 217-223. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i4.5

Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net