The Philosophical Import of Obafemi Awolowo's Theory of Mental Magnitude

Abstract

The paper examines Awolowo's theory of mental magnitude and how it can contribute to the debate on the achievement of good governance in Nigeria. The theory harps on a person's ability to subvert the human desires that crave selfish interest and crass materialism. Basically, it is about good governance which is defined in terms of transparency, accountability, social justice, fairness, equity and selflessness. It says that leaders engage in corrupt practices and selfish acts because they lack complete education, which Awolowo links with the development of mind, body and brain, an embodiment of mental magnitude. It is the belief that leaders need to tame their appetite and emotion, and embrace discipline as a value in order to achieve effective governance and development in society.

Keywords: mental magnitude, leadership, corruption, self-discipline, good governance.