The Pursuit of Happiness and Conflict in Africa: Discontent and Rebellion in an Unhappy Continent

Abstract

Violent conflicts continue to be a feature of much Africa’s political landscape. Not only are Africa‟s conflicts increasing, but they are also interpreted and theorized in varied ways, with irreducible discrepancies. In the dominant literature, ethnicity, religion, resources, territory, poor governance, and the struggle for power, among others, have been identified as the major causes of violent conflict in the continent. This paper, abroad brush that raises more questions than answers, argues that, under lying these apparent causes of violent conflict is the undying desire for happiness. It shows that, poor governance and economic stagnation hinder stable lives, undermine happiness, and can lead to armed conflict, which in turn hinders development programs and exacerbates the problem. It concludes by paraphrasing Clausewitz‟s dictum that, war in Africa is a pursuit of happiness by other means and, therefore, to prevent it, scientifically based and well formulated policies policy should promote popular happiness.