ISSN 2360-7998
Abstract: This paper explored Léopold Sédar Senghor’s concepts of the universal civilization and cosmopolitanism as frameworks for African development. Senghor advocated for cultural miscegenation which he believed would lead to African development which is, however, a multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects of human endeavours to include economic, social, political, and cultural dimensions. Significantly, Senghor’s concept of development goes beyond mere economic growth to encompass sustainable and inclusive progress that benefits all individuals and communities. In African context, development is particularly complex due to the continent’s diverse challenges which include (1) colonial experience which distorted African identity; (2) African cultural conceptions which are not conducive for development; (3) high ethnic and linguistic fragmentation; (4) lack of sufficient finance to kick-start the development process; (5) international economic policies which are not always conducive for the development of African countries; (6) socio-political instability, insecurities; (7) ill-advised development policies, bad leadership and corruption. However, through a critical analysis of Senghor’s philosophies, this paper examined the key elements of his vision for a united and developed Africa. The paper also employed expository and critical methods to illustrate the applications of Senghor’s ideas in various sectors of development. The paper found out that Senghor’s ideas of universal civilization and cosmopolitanism are potent enough to inform developmental paradigms in Africa. The paper concluded that Senghor’s universal civilization and cosmopolitanism offer a valuable framework for African sustainable development, promoting unity and global cooperation.
Keywords: Senghor, Civilization, Cosmopolitanism, African Development, Global Cooperation, Sustainable Development.