Paper short abstract:

This paper explores how the 'native magic' (cultural beliefs) which govern traditional Aso-oke weaving also contribute to its stagnation and attenuated demise by impeding the addressing of any wicked problems.

Paper long abstract:

This paper explores how the 'native magic' (cultural beliefs) which govern traditional Aso-oke weaving also contribute to its stagnation and attenuated demise, by impeding the solution of 'wicked' problems (defined here as social or cultural problems that are difficult or impossible to solve). As Nigeria moves on from traditional development to a technological one, her inhabitants are beset by multidimensional problems. Sociocultural attainments in education from the western world have both improved and also imperilled the country's know-how. A new introverted attitude coupled with an analytical extroverted synthesis might benefit the country at this particular point in time (Edwards, in 1950, foresaw a transition to mechanized weaving in Nigeria, one which could build on the legacy of skills built up by traditional weavers). However, the conflicting demands between the imperatives of tradition and the exigencies of the 'wicked' problems peculiar to their particular situation renders impotent any attempts to address such problems.

This paper, finally, also examines why this potential for translation beyond rustic cottage craft has not manifested, and the role that cultural requirements and beliefs play in the interface between modernity and 'wicked' problems.