Playing the Marginality Game - Identity Politics in West Africa In "Playing the Marginality Game - Identity Politics in West Africa authors [insert names] delve into the intricate web of power dynamics, cultural norms, and historical events that have shaped the political landscape of Guinea, a country located in the heart of West Africa. The book offers a nuanced analysis of how rural elites have employed identity politics as a means to maintain their privileges and perpetuate a centuries-old local social contract that transcends ethnic and religious divisions. Set against the backdrop of administrative reforms and national upheaval, the authors explore the creative recombination of sources of authority and legitimate rule, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complexities that have defined Guinea's political history. The book begins by examining the legacy of colonialism, socialism, and authoritarianism on the country's political development, highlighting how these periods of governance have influenced the current struggles for participatory democracy and the future of the embattled Guinean state.

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