Esau Williams researches the theory and ontology of the African state and examines how these shape patterns of conflict, instability, and underdevelopment.

He holds an MA in International Political Economy from King’s College London. His dissertation, 'A Realist Inquiry into Governance: Decision-making in the European Union', draws on realist theories within International Relations to explain how the EU’s cooperative framework can generate tensions in both political and economic decision-making.

Williams also holds a BA (Hons) in Politics with Philosophy from Royal Holloway, University of London, and a BA in Philosophy from Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas.

Research

Thesis title: 'A Philosophical Inquiry into the Theory and Ontology of the African State as a Source and Driver of Conflict, Instability, and Underdevelopment, with Reference to Leadership'

The thesis offers a philosophical examination of the theory and ontology of the African state. It explores the nature of the state in Africa and argues that the state itself - its historical origins, institutional structures, everyday practices, and legitimating narratives - has acted as both a source and a driver of conflict, insecurity, and underdevelopment across the continent.

Drawing on critical political theory, postcolonial scholarship, and African political economy, the study challenges the common assumption that the state is a neutral or inherently developmental institution. Instead, it presents the African state as a contested and fragile entity whose historical formation and ontological foundations have produced enduring patterns of exclusion, domination, and violence.

The thesis further engages critically with debates on leadership, showing how many African leaders have struggled to build inclusive political communities. Rather than uniting diverse ethnic groups, they often reinforce social divisions by promoting forms of tribal politics that weaken national cohesion and undermine collective progress.

PhD supervision

• Principal supervisor: Professor Abiodun Alao
• Secondary supervisor: Dr Clement Sefa-Nyarko

Further details

See Esau's research profile