Nigeria: Pragmatism Vs. Idealism – A Kite Runner Analysis

5 min read Post on May 20, 2025

Nigeria: Pragmatism Vs. Idealism – A Kite Runner Analysis

Pragmatism in Nigeria: A Necessary Survival Strategy

Economic realities and the pursuit of survival:

Nigeria, despite its vast resources, grapples with widespread poverty and inequality. This harsh economic reality forces many Nigerians into making pragmatic choices, prioritizing immediate survival over long-term aspirations. The informal economy thrives, employing millions in precarious jobs to meet daily needs. This pragmatic approach to survival often means:

Choosing a lower-paying, stable job over a riskier, potentially higher-paying one.
Prioritizing immediate family needs over education or long-term investments.
Engaging in informal businesses to supplement meager incomes.
Relocating to urban centers in search of better (though often still precarious) opportunities.

This daily struggle for survival shapes individual and collective decision-making, often overshadowing idealistic goals.

Political pragmatism and navigating corruption:

Navigating Nigeria's political landscape requires a degree of pragmatism, often at odds with idealistic visions of good governance. Corruption permeates various levels of society, forcing individuals and institutions to adapt to a system where ethical principles are frequently compromised. This manifests in:

The difficulty of upholding ethical standards in a system rife with bribery and patronage.
The necessity of informal networks and connections to achieve even basic goals.
The acceptance of certain levels of corruption as a "cost of doing business."
The prioritization of short-term political gains over long-term sustainable development.

This political pragmatism, while sometimes necessary for survival within the system, hinders progress towards a more just and equitable society.

Idealism in Nigeria: The Seeds of Change and Social Reform

The role of youth and social activism:

Despite the overwhelming pragmatism, a vibrant spirit of idealism persists, particularly among Nigerian youth. Fueled by a desire for positive change, young Nigerians are actively engaging in social activism, demanding good governance, accountability, and improved living conditions. This is evident in:

The #EndSARS movement and its impact on the national conversation regarding police brutality and youth empowerment.
The rise of numerous youth-led organizations focused on education, healthcare, and environmental protection.
Increased participation in peaceful protests and advocacy campaigns for social justice.
The growing use of social media as a tool for mobilization and awareness-raising.

These youth-led movements embody an unwavering belief in a better future, challenging the pragmatic acceptance of the status quo.

Religious and cultural influences promoting idealistic values:

Religious and cultural beliefs deeply ingrained within Nigerian society foster strong idealistic values, influencing social interactions and political participation. However, these ideals often clash with the harsh realities of daily life. This tension is exemplified by:

The tension between traditional communal values and the pressures of individualistic economic competition.
The conflict between religious teachings emphasizing justice and equality and the realities of systemic inequality.
The struggle to reconcile traditional practices with the demands of modernization and globalization.
The efforts to balance religious/cultural conservatism with the push for social progress.

This conflict between tradition and modernity presents a significant challenge in navigating the path towards a more ideal society.

Parallels between The Kite Runner and the Nigerian Experience:

Amir's journey from pragmatism to idealism:

Amir's character arc in The Kite Runner provides a powerful parallel to the Nigerian experience. Initially driven by pragmatic self-preservation, Amir makes morally compromising choices. His eventual path towards redemption reflects the possibility of transcending pragmatism and embracing idealism, even after years of flawed decisions. This mirrors the struggle of many Nigerians who:

Sacrifice personal values for self-preservation, only to later seek reconciliation and positive change.
Grapple with the consequences of past compromises and strive for redemption.
Find the strength to challenge injustice and fight for what is right, despite personal risks.
Recognize the limitations of pure pragmatism and actively pursue a more just and equitable society.

The theme of redemption and the possibility of change:

The overarching theme of redemption in The Kite Runner offers a potent message of hope and the possibility of positive transformation, even in the face of deep-seated societal challenges. This resonates deeply with Nigeria's ongoing struggle for progress, reminding its citizens that past mistakes do not preclude a brighter future. The novel's powerful narrative suggests that:

Individual and collective efforts at reconciliation and reform are vital for national healing.
Acknowledging past wrongs and striving for atonement are crucial steps towards building a better society.
The pursuit of justice and accountability, though challenging, is essential for progress.
Hope remains a powerful catalyst for change, inspiring individuals to overcome obstacles and strive for a more just future.

Conclusion:

This analysis highlights the complex interplay between pragmatism and idealism within the Nigerian context, mirroring the compelling themes explored in The Kite Runner. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for shaping Nigeria's future. The novel's narrative serves as a potent reminder that while pragmatic choices are often necessary for survival, the pursuit of idealistic values remains essential for building a more just, equitable, and prosperous nation. We encourage readers to further explore these themes by reading The Kite Runner and engaging in discussions about Nigeria's pragmatic and idealistic struggles, analyzing Nigeria through the lens of Hosseini's powerful narrative.