Volume 5, Number 2

Understanding Philosophical Analysis using Nigerian Democracy as a Case Study

  Authors

Linus Oluchukwu Akudolu, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Nigeria

  Abstract

There are many methods of inquiry used in philosophy but analysis is the most dreaded and most vital among them. Many see it is a thorny academic exercise to do. Many who adopt the method in their researches often end up applying phenomenology or hermeneutics. This work therefore paper aims at explaining what analysis is and how to apply it in philosophical inquiry, using Nigerian democracy as an example. Philosophical analysis is hereby defined as a method whereby a concept is broken to its constituent parts in order to understand it better, criticise or reinterpret. Using Nigerian democracy as example, the author breaks down the concept of democracy to its basic features. Relating them to Nigerian government, the researcher finds out that those essential features are lacking in Nigeria. The conclusion is that Nigeria does not practise democracy.With these discussions on the meaning, nature and application of philosophical analysis, the paper serves as a guide to philosophers on how to apply the method effectively in their researches. It is of great value too to those in humanities and social sciences.

  Keywords

Analysis, Philosophy, Method, Democracy, Nigeria