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Religious networks and small businesses in Senegal
Author(s) -
Cochrane Laura L.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
economic anthropology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2330-4847
DOI - 10.1002/sea2.12185
Subject(s) - islam , ethnography , economic welfare , welfare , colonialism , sociology , religious organization , economic stability , religious life , business , economic growth , political science , political economy , development economics , economics , geography , law , anthropology , philosophy , archaeology , religious studies , keynesian economics
Senegalese religious groups historically have relied on their own networks to manage external challenges, such as colonialism, drought, and economic difficulties. Present‐day religious networks often use small businesses to economically support themselves. Drawing on ethnographic research in central Senegal, this article argues that strong religious networks, and practicing Islamic teachings of social welfare, are both the means of creating and the goal of economic stability. Economic gain is a tool with which business owners can support their families and local economies, enabling people to live a religious life within a supportive community.