Here are some of his notable works:
Books:
* A Political Economy of Africa (1981) - This is perhaps his most famous work, analyzing the political and economic problems faced by African countries, and exploring the relationship between the state, the economy, and political power.
* The Political Economy of Nigeria (1985) - A focused study on the political and economic system of Nigeria, analyzing its complexities and challenges.
* Democracy and Development in Africa (1996) - This book examines the relationship between democracy and development in Africa, discussing the challenges and opportunities of democratization in the continent.
* Is Africa Unmanageable? (1996) - A critical analysis of the challenges and opportunities facing Africa in the late 20th century.
* The Feasibility of Democracy in Africa (2000) - This work delves into the feasibility of democracy in Africa, exploring the challenges and potential for successful democratization.
Articles and Essays:
* Ake published numerous articles and essays in scholarly journals and books, covering topics such as:
* State formation and development in Africa
* The role of civil society in Africa
* The impact of globalization on Africa
* The challenges of democratization in Africa
* The future of Africa
Key Themes and Contributions:
* Critical analysis of the state: Ake was known for his critical analysis of the state in Africa, arguing that the state often acted as an instrument of oppression and exploitation, rather than a force for development.
* Focus on development: He emphasized the importance of understanding the relationship between politics and development, arguing that development could not be achieved without political change.
* Emphasis on democracy: Ake was a strong advocate for democracy in Africa, arguing that it was essential for sustainable development and social justice.
* Influence on African scholarship: His work has had a significant influence on African scholarship, helping to shape the discourse on African politics, development, and the state.
Claude Ake was a prolific and influential scholar who made significant contributions to our understanding of African politics, development, and the state. His work continues to be relevant and influential today.