Pitting Eurocentric against Afrocentric Punishment Systems in Eclectic Contexts

Abstract

The article aimed to pit Eurocentric against Afrocentric punishment systems in eclectic contexts of the globe and adopted a literature review methodology drawing data from different data engines such as Google Scholar, JSTOR, ResearchGate, EBSChost, and the WSU library. Keywords used to gather data included the following: restorative justice, retributive justice, traditional African justice, hybrid justice systems, Ubuntu and justice, Eurocentric punishment, Afrocentric punishment, and comparative justice systems. Data was thematically synthesized and established the following findings: Divergent philosophical foundations of punishment; Punishment as retribution versus restoration; Cultural legitimacy and community engagement; Coexistence and tensions in hybrid justice systems; Implications for justice and social cohesion. Conclusively, incorporating Afrocentric restorative justice principles into Eurocentric-dominated legal systems can offer more culturally respectful, socially cohesive, and holistic approaches to punishment—moving beyond retaliation toward healing and reconciliation. This integration can foster a more equitable and compassionate model of justice by addressing the needs of victims, offenders, and communities, while effectively resolving conflicts within hybrid judicial frameworks.