Philosophy

The Role of Yorùbá Culture in Conflict De-escalation and Peace Maintenance

INTRODUCTION TO YORUBÁ CULTURE AND ITS ROLE IN PEACEKEEPING

Yorùbá culture, deeply rooted in the traditions of southwest Nigeria, has been a subject of extensive study across sociology, history, cultural studies, and anthropology. The renowned scholar Arnold (1869) viewed culture as a driving force for „sweetness and light,“ a sentiment echoed by others who see culture as a framework for history (Susman, 2012) and as a means for creating meaning in life (Sewell Jr., 2005). These perspectives underline the profound impact that culture can have on societal norms and peacekeeping, particularly in the Yorùbá community.

This exploration into the peace-sustaining aspects of Yorùbá culture is based on primary research conducted between 2014 and 2020. It offers insights into how cultural traits can facilitate harmony and peace within a community, an important consideration in the broader field of peace studies which often focuses on conflict resolution and management.

UNDERSTANDING THE PEACEFUL SOCIETIES (PS)

Anthropologists have identified numerous communities globally as ‚Peaceful Societies‘ for their unique approaches to maintaining peace. These include the Nubians, Amish, and Ju/’hoansi, among others. These societies share common traits such as a minimal focus on material wealth and a structured approach to conflict resolution, which often includes a strong emphasis on social cohesion and leadership roles.

Despite not being listed among these societies, the Yorùbá people exhibit many similar peaceful traits, characterized by their unique cultural, religious, and social practices that emphasize communal living and conflict avoidance.

THE YORUBÁ APPROACH TO DE-ESCALATION CONFLICT

The Yorùbá culture provides a rich tapestry of practices and beliefs that contribute to peace. From religious tolerance observed between Christians and Muslims in the southwest to the use of communal leadership in conflict resolution, the Yorùbá have developed a complex system of social interactions that help mitigate conflicts before they escalate.

Research methods including surveys, focus groups, and interviews have revealed that family, community life, and religion play pivotal roles in how the Yorùbá handle disputes and maintain peace. Themes such as respect for communal values, the significance of family ties, and the role of religion in daily life are recurrent in discussions about peace in Yorùbá society.

Economic and Resource-Related Conflicts

Despite their peaceful nature, the Yorùbá are not immune to conflicts arising from economic and resource limitations. Land disputes and water resource management are prominent issues that have led to conflicts within the community. However, the cultural framework within which the Yorùbá operate often allows for effective mediation and conflict resolution led by community elders and leaders.

The Role of Religion in Yorùbá Conflict Resolution

Religion plays a complex role in Yorùbá society, acting both as a source of conflict and a tool for peace. Interreligious tensions, such as those arising from the hijab controversies in Osun and Kwara states, demonstrate the potential for religious symbolism to lead to conflict. However, the Yorùbá’s approach to religion in the public sphere is generally marked by an inclusive attitude, which has helped maintain a relatively peaceful coexistence compared to other regions.

Cultural Tolerance and Values in Yorùbá Society

The Yorùbá culture is characterized by a deep-seated tolerance and understanding that permeates various aspects of life. Cultural practices, including storytelling, music, and community gatherings, serve not only as entertainment but also as mediums for imparting moral values and lessons that reinforce social norms conducive to peace.

Linguistic Heritage and Its Impact on Peace

The Yorùbá language is more than a means of communication; it is a vessel for cultural preservation and peacekeeping. Through proverbs, stories, and songs, the Yorùbá communicate values of respect, community, and cooperation. These linguistic tools are integral to the community’s ability to resolve conflicts and maintain social harmony.

The Importance of Family and Community in Maintaining Peace

The concept of Ẹbí (family) extends beyond biological ties in Yorùbá culture, encompassing a broader societal framework that emphasizes mutual support and collective responsibility. This expansive definition of family strengthens community bonds and facilitates peaceful conflict resolution.

CONCLUSION: YORUBÁ CULTURE AS A BLUEPRINT FOR PEACE

The Yorùbá example provides valuable insights into how culture can be leveraged to foster peace and resolve conflicts. Their approach combines respect for tradition with adaptive social practices that together create a resilient and peaceful community. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and diverse, understanding and integrating the peacekeeping aspects of cultures like that of the Yorùbá could be key to developing more harmonious societies globally.

Note: This blog is a review and rewriting of an interesting scientific article. See the original article here.

Newsletter: I wrote a newsletter about Orishá Ifá and peace. Feel free to read and comment here.

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