VI. Identity crisis by Desmond Tutu.

This volume focuses on the role Christian churches have played in Africa's democratisation movements since the late 1980s. In some cases churchmen have presided over national conferences; in many, Christians comprise arguably the most significant segment of civil society. In some countries pastoral letters have challenged dictators; in others, churches have provided an essential support for the status quo. The book comprises both theoretical analyses and case studies. The theoretical discussions include the history of Church-State relations; theology and democracy; Pentecostalism and democracy; the problems of consolidating democracy. The 13 case studies sketch the historical context, and then critically examine developments up till late 1993. The book will prove particularly useful to students of Third World Christianity, African historians and political scientists, and all interested in the socio-political role of Christianity.

What happens when a revivalist religion based on scriptural orthodoxy participates in the volatile politics of the Third World? This volume considers the case of Africa, the region with the world's fastest-expanding population. Christianity, especially in its evangelical and Pentecostal forms, has acquired many millions of new adherents in Africa in recent decades. The attitudes and behavior of these believers could have vast consequences for growth, development and democratization. In his Introduction, editor Terence Ranger provides a historical overview. The book then offers individual case studies of six countries: Nigeria, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, and Mozambique. The contributors, mainly younger scholars based in Africa, bring first-hand knowledge to their chapters and employ both field and archival research to develop their data and analyses. The result is a groundbreaking work that will be indispensable to everyone concerned with the future of this volatile region.

"The contributors creatively explore the theme of 'democracy', noting its openness to a wide variety of meanings and interpretations. The book lucidly documents the fact that although in practice 'democracy' may not be perfect or easily attainable, its tenets are worth promoting in every society and nation everywhere. The Church has a responsibility to engage itself in this endeavour, beginning with itself and radiating its exemplary teaching and action throughout the rest of society. Appreciating the role of the Church as an agent of reconciliation, the book urges for the enhancement of that role in every nation. The book extends the challenge to Africans in general, and theologians in particular, to critically reflect on the democratization and reconciliation processes in their respective nations, in order to facilitate a meeting of minds concerning the destiny of Africa."--

In what has become known as Africa's "second liberation", there has been a renewed drive from within for peace and good governance. Church leaders have been key actors in this drive as is evident in their peacemaking initiatives and their commitment to peaceful change. African scholars explore in this book the transition phenomenon as it unfolded in East and Southern Africa. They reflect on the theological, historical, philosophical and traditional perpsectives of the churches' involvement in the socio-political transition in Africa. Case studies of South Africa, Mozambique, Madagascar, Zambia, Zaire and Kenya have been used with a view to providing a practical counterpoint and hope for the future.

Spanning various regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, the authors of this volume come together to explore the complex relationship between religion and democracy in contemporary Africa. As a result of the end of the Cold War and the fall of the Soviet Union, many African countries have come to the realization, however partial, that political and social change is inevitable in spite of government heavy-handedness and threats. It has also become evident that no political system that refuses to permit freedom of political expression and alternative systems of governance could continue to be sustained. It is in precisely this political climate that religious institutions have collaborated with other elements of civil society to call for political reforms, with the church often becoming the prominent voice against oppressive governments in countries such as Kenya and South Africa. It is the purpose of this book to assess how religion shapes political issues and to what extent religious forces influence the civil society. By acknowledging the role of the civil society, the essays recognize the resilience that comes out of Africa even when the sociopolitical situation seems unbearable.