SOCIAL CAPITAL AND THE IMPERATIVES OF THE CONCEPT AND LIFE OF UBUNTU IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN CONTEXT
Abstract
In this article, I argue that an interface exists between the Western concept of social capital and the African concept and the way of life traditionally known as Ubuntu. Social capital generates values of co-operation and collaboration which appear to be consonant with the spirit of Ubuntu, a concept and way of life which characterize hospitality or generosity as the core values of African communality. I highlight that both concepts differ in that while social capital can be quantified Ubuntu cannot. I also show that negative consequences may emanate from the application of the concepts and their possibilities of being manipulated for selfish means in promoting the interests of the minorities at the expense of the majority. However, I suggest that the appropriation of both could enhance the capacity of communities to deal with anti-social issues such as crime.Downloads
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