Realism, idealism and crisis resolution in Nigeria: A philosophical study

Abstract

Conflict, struggle, revolution and violence are arguably fundamental in the character of human society. Dialogue is one of the modern methods basic in resolving conflicts in the human society as well. The menace of terrorism, tribal agitation, partisan irrational struggle for dominion and corruption in various places of trust in Nigeria have prodded the minds of Nigerian scholars from various disciplines towards seeking for a pragmatic solution to reduce these occurrences and if possible, bring them to the barest minimum. Some idealist philosophers and scholars of crisis resolution across the globe have argued that violence aggravates than solves any problem. In the same vein, realists have, also argued that for peace to reign, violence must beget violence. Basic to the fundamental principle of the realists is the resolve that human nature is characterized by conflict, struggle and competition and that the world is a battle field where the fittest survives. Since both arguments have merits and demerits, which could be more pragmatic in resolving Nigeria‟s crisis? What justification authenticates the adoption of any of these standards? Applying the methods of analysis and hermeneutics, this paper, therefore, argues that “alternative violence” could be nearest in resolving irrational crisis in Nigeria. It is revealed that Nigeria as a nation with diverse ethnic groupings has a complex structure and her crisis demands an indigenous system or a self styled democracy that will accommodate our complexes and also give room for praxis-oriented approach necessary in resolving crisis. The conclusion is that a rational violent revolution is a sine-qua-non for resolving and restoring the present crisis ridden Nigeria to a near stable and peaceful state.

Keywords: Idealism, Realism, Crisis, Philosophy, Dialogue, Violence, Conflict