Xenophobia and its implications for social order in Africa

Abstract

Xenophobia, a form of discrimination practiced in countries, particularly in South Africa, is one of the major challenges confronting the modern day society. This paper examines xenophobia as a menace showing at the same time that this discriminatory practice  bifurcates societies by creating a dichotomy amidst the various occupants of the  society, thereby giving room for “otherness” rather than “orderliness”. The paper also highlights the philosophical implications of this societal bifurcation, particularly to the human community. Seeking a plausible way of addressing this challenge, the paper concludes by emphasizing the relevance of the value of tolerance in curbing xenophobia.

Keywords: Xenophobia, Social discrimination, Tolerance, order and other, Africa.