Nigeria: A Comparative Study Of Pragmatism Using The Kite Runner As A Lens

Viktoria Ivanova

5 min read

Post on May 20, 2025

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Pragmatism in The Kite Runner: Survival and Adaptation

The Kite Runner provides compelling examples of pragmatism as a means of survival. Characters frequently make difficult choices, prioritizing self-preservation even when it compromises their moral compass. This section explores the pragmatic choices of key characters, examining their motivations and consequences.

Amir's Pragmatism: Moral Compromises and Survival Strategies

Amir's journey is rife with pragmatic actions, many born out of fear and self-interest. His silence about Hassan's assault is a prime example of "Amir's pragmatism," a decision driven by self-preservation that haunts him for years.

• Silence about Hassan's assault: This act of omission, born out of fear and self-preservation, profoundly shapes Amir's life.
• Later attempts at redemption: Driven by guilt, Amir's eventual efforts to atone for his past actions demonstrate a different kind of pragmatism – a recognition of past mistakes and a commitment to making amends. This demonstrates his evolving understanding of the consequences of his choices. This reflects the complex nature of "survival strategies" within a challenging moral landscape.

Baba's Pragmatism and its Consequences

Baba, Amir's father, also embodies a distinct brand of "Baba's pragmatism." His unwavering adherence to certain beliefs and social norms, though often harsh and inflexible, is arguably a pragmatic strategy for navigating a patriarchal society. However, these choices have significant, negative consequences.

• Treatment of Hassan: Baba's treatment of Hassan reflects his deeply ingrained social prejudices and his pragmatic approach to maintaining his social standing.
• Relationships with others: Baba's relationships are often marked by his uncompromising nature and his belief in traditional power structures. This impacts his relationships with Amir and others, illustrating how "father-son relationships" are impacted by pragmatic, albeit flawed, approaches.

Nigerian Pragmatism: Navigating Socio-Political Realities

Understanding "Nigerian pragmatism" requires examining the socio-economic and political contexts. Nigerians often demonstrate remarkable resourcefulness and adaptability in the face of systemic challenges.

Economic Pragmatism in Nigeria: Resourcefulness and the Informal Sector

Nigeria's economic realities force many citizens to adopt pragmatic economic strategies for survival. The informal sector thrives as a result, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of Nigerians.

• Entrepreneurship: Many Nigerians find employment and create wealth through self-employment and small-scale businesses, a testament to their adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit.
• Adaptability to economic hardship: The ability to navigate periods of economic instability and inflation reflects the pragmatic approach of many Nigerians, highlighting their "resourcefulness." This is particularly evident in the "informal sector," which plays a significant role in the Nigerian economy.

Social and Political Pragmatism in Nigeria: Resilience and Navigating Power Structures

Social and political pragmatism in Nigeria involves navigating a complex landscape of power dynamics and social structures. Nigerians often demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of systemic challenges.

• Navigating corruption: Many Nigerians develop strategies to negotiate corrupt systems and bureaucratic hurdles, sometimes resorting to informal networks and alternative solutions.
• Community resilience: The ability of Nigerian communities to cope with challenges, from natural disasters to economic downturns, demonstrates remarkable social resilience and community support. This highlights the importance of social networks as a vital survival mechanism within the country, contributing to "Nigerian social pragmatism."

Comparative Analysis: Parallels and Divergences

This section draws parallels and contrasts between the pragmatic strategies employed in The Kite Runner and the Nigerian context.

Shared Themes of Betrayal and Redemption: Nigerian Narratives and The Kite Runner

Both The Kite Runner and numerous Nigerian narratives explore themes of betrayal and redemption. The experiences of characters navigating moral dilemmas and seeking forgiveness resonate across both contexts.

• Betrayal's impact: Betrayal, whether personal or societal, creates lasting consequences in both settings, illustrating the profound impact such actions can have on individuals and communities.
• Redemption's possibilities: The possibility of redemption, however difficult to achieve, offers a powerful counterpoint to the pervasiveness of betrayal. This shows the capacity for self-improvement and growth in both contexts, reflected in the "Nigerian narratives" and the events within The Kite Runner.

Contrasting Contexts and Pragmatic Responses: Cultural Impact on Pragmatism

Despite shared themes, the social, political, and cultural contexts of Afghanistan and Nigeria differ significantly, shaping the nature and consequences of pragmatic choices.

• Cultural norms and values: Differences in cultural norms and values influence the types of pragmatic strategies individuals employ.
• Political systems and institutions: The different political systems and institutional structures create distinct challenges that require diverse pragmatic responses. This underscores the importance of "contextual differences" and their impact on "pragmatic responses."

Conclusion: Re-examining Nigerian Pragmatism through the Lens of The Kite Runner

This comparative analysis highlights both the parallels and divergences in pragmatic strategies between the fictional world of The Kite Runner and the realities of Nigerian society. The enduring relevance of pragmatism as a survival mechanism is evident in both contexts. However, the specific strategies employed and their consequences are shaped by unique cultural, social, and political factors. Further research into Nigerian pragmatism and its various manifestations is crucial. Consider exploring how specific cultural practices intersect with pragmatic decision-making in diverse Nigerian communities, using The Kite Runner as a framework for comparative analysis. This could lead to insightful studies on "Nigerian pragmatism studies" and further "comparative literature analysis" of The Kite Runner interpretations within the Nigerian context.