Book review
Title: Political Thought: Sketches in Western and African Political Thought (3rd edition, 2023)
Author: Okechukwu Edward Okeke
Reviewer: Blessed Frank (Federal University Otuoke, Nigeria; +2348160555378)
Reading Professor Okechukwu Edward Okeke’s new textbook, Political Thought: Sketches in Western and African Political Philosophy, brings back memories of my first encounter with this historian and teacher during my freshman year in the university, when he introduced “Major World Civilizations to 1500” to a joint class of English and History students. His Political Thought, which focuses on political philosophy, is a refreshing and much-needed addition to the study of both Western and African political thought, particularly for undergraduate students. Designed as a foundational text, the book simplifies complex philosophical concepts without sacrificing the integrity or essential depth of the subject. Okeke’s extensive experience in teaching and writing on political thought is evident, as the book carefully balances accessibility with scholarly rigour, making it an ideal tool not only for students but also for teachers seeking to introduce these dense topics in an easily comprehensible manner.
One of the standout features of this text is its focus on clarity. Many academic works in political philosophy are overly complex, laden with jargon that can alienate beginners. Okeke avoids this trap by employing straightforward, everyday language that breaks down difficult concepts into manageable parts. His intent to “download” the subject to the average student is successfully realized, offering a smoother learning curve for those new to political thought. Despite this simplification, the core ideas of the political philosophers discussed remain intact, providing students with a robust understanding of the subject.
The structure of the text equally contributes to its effectiveness. Okeke adopts an “author-focused” approach, dedicating each chapter to a single thinker rather than organizing the content thematically. This method allows students to fully appreciate the individual contributions of key figures in both Western and African political philosophy, from early thinkers like Augustine to the intelligentsia of modern Africa. The chronological arrangement further helps to trace the development of political ideas over time, giving students a historical context that deepens their understanding of how political thought has evolved.
The inclusion of African political philosophy alongside Western thought is a significant strength, offering a balanced perspective often missing in many curricula. While writing within a shorter time span, the African philosophers whose works are treated in the book provide critical insights into the political and social realities of post-colonial Africa, enriching students’ understanding of modern Africa.
Overall, this text is an invaluable resource for students and educators alike. Its clarity, accessible language, and careful selection of key thinkers make it an excellent introduction to political philosophy, bridging the gap between dense academic theory and the needs of undergraduate learners; hence, it stands HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
NOTES BY THE AUTHOR (Professor Okechukwu E. Okeke)
To the undergraduate student I
Political Thought is written for non-Philosophy majors in the Humanities and Social Sciences, especially for undergraduates that take Western Political Thought and African Political Thought as a one-semester course each. Each of its sixteen chapters, except one, focuses on the works of a single author. Each section is arranged in chronological order: the work of an author that wrote earlier is treated before the work of another that wrote later. The book gives the reader the basic concepts in political thought in both regions of the world. It also tries to establish the context in which each author or set of authors wrote. Besides, there is a concluding chapter where the author attempts to show how political thought has influenced political policy all through the ages. Written in plain language, this book will also be found readable and useful by the general reader.
To the undergraduate student II
You are an undergraduate student, but you major is not political philosophy. You are required to take Western political thought or African political thought as a one-semester course. You are anxious to learn. But you do not want to be drowned, as it were, in a sea of books or in a book that is a sea. Thus, you want a book that will enable you to easily understand the subject and pass your exam, and also serve as a foundation for in-depth study of the subject in future. Political Thought: Sketches in Western and African Political Philosophy is the book you need.
To the general reader
You are not schooled in philosophy, political science or history. But you are interested in political philosophy. You want to satisfy your curiosity, to understand public affairs or to be better prepared to participate in public affairs. Political Thought: Sketches in Western and African Political Philosophy, is the place to begin. It is written in everyday language. It is not prolix. It is not opinionated. It is the kind of book the general reader needs to have.
Available in two formats: Paperback & E-book
