Totemism, its influence on the Akan youth of Ghana

Abstract

This research seeks to discuss Totemism: its influence on the Akan Youth of Ghana touching on the types of totems, the philosophical and literal meanings of the totems and conservation of biodiversity. These totems have so much hidden knowledge to be learnt but most of the youth are ignorant about them. This problem can be associated to ignorance, adulteration of culture, improper documentation and the over reliance on adulterated oral history. The research seeks to bring to bear the existing totems within the Akan Culture, elucidate and discuss the literal and philosophical meanings embedded in these archetypes. The Research is situated under the qualitative paradigm employing questionnaire, interview and observation as the main research tools to find information and the review of relevant literature. The findings were discussed as well. The research revealed that there are eight established Akan Clans with their associated totems. However, there are other peripheral totems in our communities. The names of the Clans and totems change depending on where one is geographically located. The Totems are Philosophical in nature and possess Literal meanings as well. Natural places serving as habitats for totemic elements are revered so as to conserve our flora and fauna. Such places have helped to protect these totemic elements from extinction and destruction. The aged have so much knowledge about our Customs and Institutions for which the youth must learn from since they are the custodians of our rich cultural heritage. There is a big gap between the youth and the aged culminating in alienation of the youth from their rich cultural values that are epitome of traditional knowledge. There are limited documented materials on totems and totemism in our educational institutions and indepth research into the historical aspect of totems should be conducted.