The Moral Economy of the State: Conservation, Community Development, and State-Making in Zimbabwe (Volume 68) (Ohio RIS Africa Series)

Munro, William A.

ISBN 10: 0896802027 / ISBN 13: 9780896802025

Published by Ohio University Press, 1998

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Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Moral Economy of the State: Conservation, Community Development, and State-Making in Zimbabwe (Volume 68) (Ohio RIS Africa Series)
• Publisher: Ohio University Press
• Publication Date: 1998
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0896802027
• ISBN 13: 9780896802025
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

The Moral Economy of the State examines state formation in Zimbabwe from the colonial period through the first decade of independence. Drawing on the works of Gramsci, E. P. Thompson, and James Scott, William Munro develops a theory of “moral economy” that explores negotiations between rural citizens and state agents over legitimate state incursions in social life. This analysis demonstrates how states try to shape the meanings of citizenship for agrarian populations by redefining conceptions of the public good, property rights, and community membership. The book’s focus on the moral economy of the state offers a refreshing perspective on the difficulties experienced by postcolonial African states in building stronger state and rural institutions.

About the Author

Munro teaches African politics and comparative development at Northwestern University.