The Cultural Argument and the Same-Sex Marriage Debate: The Perspective of Moderate African Communitarianism

Abstract

This essay discusses the right to same-sex marriages in Africa within the purview of African thought systems. The consensus among Africans appears to be that LGBT rights and lifestyles are imported ways of life from the West and are inimical to the communal cultural values of Africa. However, the West has insisted that African countries recognize LGBT rights or face sanctions. We examine this tension within the purview of the African thought system, specifically within the perspective of moderate African communitarian values, and conclude by offering a more comprehensive resolution strategy to ending the impasse.