Module 4 Topic 6 - Normative Dimension of the Cordillera IP Worldview

Norms in Society

  • Definition of Norms: General standards of behavior shared within a society, guiding what members should or should not do in specific situations.

  • Quotations from Panopio & Rolda (2000):

    • Norms define tasks and expectations within a group.

    • Norms are followed out of habit.

Types of Norms

  • Folkways: Repetitive behaviors and customs in daily life.

  • Laws: Formalized rules enforced by government.

  • Mores: Moral and ethical standards, primarily focusing on what is considered right or wrong, often encompassing taboos.

Core Values in Filipino Worldview

  • Core Values: Basic assumptions and beliefs intrinsic to individuals in a social group, influencing collective consciousness and understanding of the world (defined by Jocano, 2001).

    • Definition: Core values influence mental imagery and behavioral responses.

    • Expressed in beliefs, norms, and moral codes fundamental to the community.

  • Filipino Term for Core Value: Pamantayan, representing the standard of behavior and decision-making.

Elements of the Pamantayan System

  • Halaga: Standard for evaluating merits and quality, helping prioritize decisions.

  • Diwa: Provides motivation for feelings and actions, critical for behavior.

  • Asal: Guides moral, ethical, and emotional codes of conduct in contextual behavior.

Normative Dimensions

  • The module examines the normative dimensions of the Filipino worldview, focusing on indigenous concepts of political leadership and justice.

  • Learning Outcomes:

    1. Identify qualities of indigenous political leaders in the Cordillera region.

    2. Differentiate indigenous justice notions from the national government's legal system.

Key Concepts to Understand

  • asal, bodong, diwa, halaga, karangalan, kaunlaran, kawanggawa, kinabukasan, pakikipagkapwa, pangats, tongtong.

Understanding Asal

  • Asal: Essence of the Filipino worldview; the basis for deciding right and wrong, good and bad behavior.

Main Elements of Asal

  1. Pagkamaramdamin (Subjectivism): High emotional awareness in behavior; rationality often influenced by emotions.

  2. Pakikipagkapwa (Personalism): Emphasis on personalized relationships; preference for face-to-face interaction.

  3. Pagkakamag-anak (Familism): Prioritization of family interests over collective/community interests.

Normative Standards in Filipino Society

  • Normative values ensure smooth interpersonal relationships within the community.

  • Emotionalism and relational standards strongly influence traditional beliefs, judgments, and ethical views.

  • Good behavior is often evaluated based on one’s relationship with others.

Community and Cooperative Values

  • Cooperative Labor: Norms such as tagnawa and dagyaw reflect community spirit in shared labor through mutual assistance without monetary exchange.

  • Pagsusumikap: Valued trait indicating hard work and initiative, viewed as essential for community members.

Normative Rules for Behavior

  • Norms guide how individuals interact, make decisions, and resolve disputes.

  • Collective responsibilities and kinship affiliations play significant roles in the acknowledgment of offenses and the resolution process.

Indigenous Concepts of Leadership and Justice

  • Insights into specific indigenous political structures and justice systems across various Cordillera groups, including Ibaloy, Kankanaey, Bontok, Kalinga, Ifugao, Isneg, and Tinguians.

Types of Leaders

  • Council of Elders: Decision-makers in Ibaloy communities; not compensated but respected for wisdom.

  • Lakay/Amam-a: Kankanaey elders directing community affairs.

  • Pangats: Powerful leaders in Kalinga with significant influence over community affairs.

Dispute Settlements

  • Conflicts are addressed within kin groups or villages; justice often integrates ceremonial and economic aspects.

  • Emphasis on collective responsibility and the communal nature of offenses.

Conclusion on Leadership and Justice Practices

  • Cordillera communities maintain their unique identity and practices despite the encroachment of modern governmental influences.

  • The indigenous systems are evolving but showcase resilience in the face of changing political landscapes.