African Philosophical Thought Pattern and Conflict Resolution Dialectics: A Study of the Anglophone Crisis in Cameroon.

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the limitations and applicability of Nkrumah’s Philosophical Consciencism in addressing the Anglophone crisis in Cameroon, with a focus on its relevance to conflict resolution. The specific objectives were to investigate the philosophical foundations of consciencism, analyze its potential in resolving the Anglophone crisis, and examine its limitations in this context. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design, with a sample size of 132 students from the University of Buea’s Departments of Public Administration, History and Political Science. Purposive sampling was employed to ensure that the respondents had relevant academic engagement with African philosophical thought. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire that included demographic details and sections focused on each of the study’s objectives, measured on a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics, such as mean counts and standard deviations, were used for initial analysis, while multiple linear regressions was employed to explore the relationship between consciencism and conflict resolution. Key findings showed that consciencism practical solutions for the crisis were insufficient, with most mean scores below 3, except for some aspects related to collective identity. Regression analysis indicated significant limitations (β = 0.76, p < 0.05) of consciencism in addressing the Anglophone crisis. The study recommends the development of a more context-specific philosophical framework that addresses Cameroon’s unique sociopolitical realities.