PLS1502
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2026
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 23 MARCH 2026
, Introduction to African Philosophy - PLS1502
Social Cohesion and Communitarianism in South Africa: A Critical Evaluation
Introduction
South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 emphasises social cohesion,
active citizenship, and collective responsibility as essential for overcoming historical
inequalities and promoting national development. The concept of social cohesion
encourages cooperation among citizens and institutions to improve economic
opportunities and social wellbeing. However, the emphasis on communal responsibility
raises philosophical questions about the balance between the rights of individuals and
the duties owed to the community. African communitarian philosophy provides a useful
framework for analysing this tension. Two influential thinkers, Ifeanyi Menkiti and
Kwame Gyekye, offer contrasting interpretations of personhood and the relationship
between individuals and communities. Menkiti represents a radical communitarian view
that emphasises communal recognition in defining personhood, while Gyekye proposes
a moderate communitarian approach that recognises the importance of both community
and individual dignity. This essay critically evaluates the South African government’s
focus on social cohesion by examining these two perspectives. It argues that Gyekye’s
moderate communitarianism better addresses the tension between constitutional rights
and communal obligations in contemporary South Africa.
Body
The South African government’s emphasis on social cohesion reflects the country’s
historical context of apartheid and social division. The goal is to build unity and
cooperation among citizens while addressing economic inequality and social
fragmentation. In this context, communitarian philosophies are often invoked because
they emphasise shared values, collective wellbeing, and the importance of community
relationships.
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2026
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 23 MARCH 2026
, Introduction to African Philosophy - PLS1502
Social Cohesion and Communitarianism in South Africa: A Critical Evaluation
Introduction
South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 emphasises social cohesion,
active citizenship, and collective responsibility as essential for overcoming historical
inequalities and promoting national development. The concept of social cohesion
encourages cooperation among citizens and institutions to improve economic
opportunities and social wellbeing. However, the emphasis on communal responsibility
raises philosophical questions about the balance between the rights of individuals and
the duties owed to the community. African communitarian philosophy provides a useful
framework for analysing this tension. Two influential thinkers, Ifeanyi Menkiti and
Kwame Gyekye, offer contrasting interpretations of personhood and the relationship
between individuals and communities. Menkiti represents a radical communitarian view
that emphasises communal recognition in defining personhood, while Gyekye proposes
a moderate communitarian approach that recognises the importance of both community
and individual dignity. This essay critically evaluates the South African government’s
focus on social cohesion by examining these two perspectives. It argues that Gyekye’s
moderate communitarianism better addresses the tension between constitutional rights
and communal obligations in contemporary South Africa.
Body
The South African government’s emphasis on social cohesion reflects the country’s
historical context of apartheid and social division. The goal is to build unity and
cooperation among citizens while addressing economic inequality and social
fragmentation. In this context, communitarian philosophies are often invoked because
they emphasise shared values, collective wellbeing, and the importance of community
relationships.
