SSE 221
POLITICAL CULTURE AND ITS LINK TO POLITICAL SYSTEM
DEFINITION OF POLITICAL CULTURE
Political culture refers to the collection of beliefs, values, norms, attitudes, and behaviors that shape
how citizens interact with their political system. It encompasses the deeply ingrained practices and
traditions that influence political life, decision-making, and governance within a society. Political
culture forms the underlying foundation upon which political systems operate.
Definition of Political System
A political system refers to the organized structure and processes through which a society makes
collective decisions, resolves conflicts, and allocates resources. It includes formal institutions such as
the executive, legislature, judiciary, and bureaucracy, as well as informal norms and practices that
govern political behavior.
The Link Between Political Culture and Political System
Political culture and political systems are deeply interconnected, with each influencing and shaping
the other. Below are key ways in which they are linked:
1. Political Culture Shapes the Nature of the Political System
Political culture reflects the attitudes and values of the people, which, in turn, determine the
type of political system that develops within a society.
For example, in societies with a parochial political culture (where citizens have limited
awareness or interest in politics), authoritarian or traditional systems are more likely to emerge
because citizens may not demand accountability or active participation.
Conversely, in societies with a participant political culture (where citizens are actively
engaged and informed), democratic systems flourish because they rely on public participation,
transparency, and accountability.
2. Political Culture Influences Political Legitimacy
A strong alignment between a society's political culture and its political system fosters
legitimacy. When the political system reflects the shared values and norms of the population,
citizens are more likely to accept its authority and participate in its processes.
For example, Scandinavian countries, with their emphasis on egalitarianism and social
welfare, have developed political systems that prioritize inclusivity, equity, and strong welfare
programs, which align with the cultural values of their citizens.
3. Political Systems Reinforce or Transform Political Culture
Political systems can actively shape political culture through policies, education, and public
discourse. For instance:
o Authoritarian systems may suppress dissent and promote a culture of obedience and
fear, limiting the development of democratic norms.
o Democratic systems, on the other hand, promote a culture of tolerance, dialogue, and
participation by institutionalizing these values in laws and practices.
Over time, sustained interaction between citizens and the political system can lead to gradual
shifts in political culture.
4. Political Socialization as a Bridge
Political culture and political systems are linked through the process of political socialization,
which refers to how individuals acquire political values, attitudes, and knowledge.
Institutions like families, schools, media, and political parties play a role in transmitting
political culture to new generations, ensuring continuity or fostering change in how the
political system is perceived.
5. Compatibility Between Political Culture and System
A mismatch between political culture and political system can lead to instability, resistance,
or even systemic collapse.
o For example, when authoritarian regimes are imposed on societies with strong
democratic traditions (e.g., during foreign occupations or military coups), they often
face resistance because the political culture does not support such systems.
o Similarly, attempts to implement democratic systems in societies with deeply
entrenched hierarchical or tribal political cultures may face challenges in fostering
participation and equality.
6. Political Culture and Policy-Making
Political culture informs the priorities and policies pursued by a political system.
In societies with a materialistic political culture, the focus may be on economic growth and
industrialization. In contrast, societies with a post-materialistic political culture (as seen in
many developed nations) may prioritize issues like environmental protection, human rights,
and social equity.
Examples of Political Culture and System Interactions
In the case of Nigeria, the relationship between political culture and the political system is shaped by
the country’s historical, ethnic, and religious diversity as well as its colonial legacy.
Political Culture in Nigeria
Nigeria’s political culture is a blend of traditional, parochial, and participant elements due to
its multi-ethnic composition, colonial history, and evolving democratic practices.
The country’s cultural diversity reflects in the coexistence of traditional governance systems
(e.g., emirs and obas) and modern political structures.
A significant characteristic of Nigerian political culture is ethnic and regional loyalty, which
often overshadows national identity and influences voting behavior and political alignment.
Political System in Nigeria
Nigeria operates a federal democratic political system with a presidential structure. It is
designed to promote power-sharing and accommodate the country’s diverse population.
The system includes a National Assembly (legislature), an executive headed by the president,
and an independent judiciary. Federalism is meant to ensure representation and autonomy for
the various ethnic groups and regions.
The Link Between Political Culture and Political System in Nigeria
1. Ethnic and Regional Influence on Political Systems:
o Nigeria’s federal system reflects its political culture of ethnic and regional loyalty.
o Power rotation between the North and South (informally known as the zoning system)
and the establishment of federal character principles aim to address ethnic tensions
and ensure inclusivity in governance.
o However, this focus on ethnic identity sometimes undermines meritocracy and fosters
patronage politics.
2. Impact of Traditional Structures on the Modern Political System:
o Nigeria’s traditional governance systems coexist with its democratic structures.
Traditional leaders (e.g., emirs in the North and obas in the Southwest) continue to
wield influence, especially at the local level, shaping political attitudes and behaviors.
o This duality reflects a mix of parochial (traditional values) and participant (modern
democratic engagement) political cultures.
3. Colonial Legacy and Political Culture:
o Nigeria’s colonial history shaped a political culture of mistrust and skepticism toward
government institutions. The exploitative practices of colonial rulers created a legacy
of weak institutions and corruption, which still influence the political system.
o This has led to widespread apathy and a low level of trust in the government among
citizens.
4. Democratic Aspirations and Civic Engagement:
o Despite challenges, Nigeria also exhibits elements of a participant political culture.
Citizens actively engage in political debates, protests, and elections.
o Movements like #EndSARS (protesting police brutality) demonstrate the growing
demand for accountability and justice, reflecting the aspirations of a younger,
politically conscious population.
5. Political Culture and Governance Challenges:
o Nigeria’s political system is often hindered by a clientelist political culture, where
loyalty to individuals or ethnic groups supersedes commitment to national
development.
o This fosters corruption and weakens democratic institutions, leading to governance
challenges such as electoral violence, vote-buying, and poor policy implementation.
Conclusion:
Political culture and political systems are mutually reinforcing. While political culture provides the
foundation upon which political systems are built, political systems, in turn, shape and evolve political
culture through policies, practices, and socialization. A harmonious relationship between the two
fosters political stability, legitimacy, and effective governance, while a disconnect can lead to unrest
and systemic challenges. Understanding this link is essential for comprehending how societies
organize their political lives and adapt to changes over time.
