Michael Neocosmos Knihy

The book explores xenophobia as a political discourse shaped by historical and social dynamics in South Africa, particularly regarding citizenship over the past fifty years. It examines how apartheid's migrant labor policies de-nationalized individuals and how post-apartheid nationalism has perpetuated exclusion based on indigeneity. The author argues that a passive citizenry, arising from a de-politicized populace, has allowed xenophobic narratives to dominate. To counter this, a redefined notion of citizenship as an active political identity is essential for restoring agency and challenging state-induced exclusion.

The book explores the complexities of governance in neocolonial African states, highlighting how these governments employ varied modes of rule across different population segments. It contrasts democratic practices, influenced by Western ideals, with colonial-style domination experienced by the majority. The text critiques the selective application of human rights within civil society while revealing the neglect of these rights in uncivil and traditional societies. This disparity complicates the formation of a unified anti-neocolonial resistance, as diverse political subjectivities emerge from these differing experiences.

Exploring the concept of emancipatory politics in Africa, the book examines its role as a "displaced exception" within both political theory and practice. It critiques how state subjectivities often reinforce existing social hierarchies. Drawing on Frantz Fanon's call to reject Eurocentric perspectives, it advocates for a reconnection with dialectical thought to foster innovation and progress. By emphasizing the need for new concepts and discoveries, the work seeks to inspire a transformative approach to political engagement in the African context.