Adinkra symbols and proverbs as tools for elucidating indigenous Asante political thought

Abstract

This chapter examines Asante political ideologies associated with adinkra and those that help to explain some concepts in adinkra symbolism. A major question that arises in the study of African political thought is whether these thoughts are indigenous to Africans or are a foreign importation. Concepts in indigenous African political institutions and practices persist and continue to impact the political cultures of contemporary African countries. Asante is one of the major Akan ethnic groups in Ghana who still uphold their indigenous political institutions, practices and thoughts. Indigenous symbols such as adinkra and the associated proverbs have transcended time; yet, they have also been adapted to social, cultural, political, religious and historical changes that characterise contemporary societies in Ghana. Language, which is a fundamental element of culture, plays a critical role in political activity, processes and power as it is used to organise people to reflect group memberships and relationships.