The concept of secularization and the study of West African traditional religion

bibliographic database
Line

Periodical article

Title:	The concept of secularization and the study of West African traditional religion
Author:	Onunwa, Udobata
Year:	1989
Periodical:	Africana Marburgensia: Sonderheft
Volume:	13
Pages:	3-10
Language:	English
Geographic terms:	West Africa Nigeria
Subjects:	secularization African religions Igbo
Abstract:	The author highlights two aspects of secularization (sociological and theological) gleaned from current literature on the subject, and assesses their impact on the belief and practice of the traditional religion of West Africa, particularly that of the Igbo of Nigeria. The influence of change on West African traditional religion has been enormous, but no factor has ever succeeded in obliterating the religion. It is paradoxical that the educated Igbo elite (like their colleagues in other parts of West Africa) who may as a matter of political ideology opt for a 'secular state' or an atheistic philosophy, has not castigated the traditional culture and religion. Members of the elite have rather turned back to seek ways to revive the culture of which the traditional religion is an important part. While the interest in Church-oriented religion is declining, there is a growing interest in the study and practice of the traditional religion of West Africa. Notes, ref.