In-Depth Notes on Individual and Social Filipino Traits

Individual and Social Filipino Traits

• Jose A. Samson

  • Spearheaded studies on Filipino psychology, including topics like psychopathology and emotions.
  • Educational background: Bachelor's in Human Psychology (UP Manila), Master's in Cultural Sciences (Stockholm University).

• Contributory Factors to Filipino Culture

  • Filipino culture is a blend of indigenous influences and foreign elements.
  • Recognition of cultural differences influenced by external forces.

Indigenous Roots and Tradition

• Pre-Colonial Culture:
  • Rich indigenous culture before Spanish colonization with unique governance, beliefs, and practices among various ethnic groups (Tagalog, Ilocano, Visayan, etc.).
  • Community cooperation (bayanihan) and respect for elders were integral.
  • Animism: Beliefs involving nature worship, influencing later Christian practices.

Spanish Colonial Influence

• Catholicism's Impact:

  • Introduced by Spanish colonizers, leading to deep-rooted Catholic practices and significant cultural events like Fiestas, Holy Week, and Christmas.

• Language Influence:

  • Many Filipino words stem from Spanish, particularly in religious and governance contexts.

• Culinary Influence:

  • Dishes like paella, adobo, and empanada reflect Spanish culinary traditions.

American Colonial Influence

• Government and Language:

  • American colonization brought democratic governance and English as an official language, impacting political structures and education.

• Cultural Impact:

  • Establishment of a public education system; English became dominant in business, government, and media.

• Cultural Reflectance:

  • American influence shapes Filipino music, fashion, and entertainment preferences, notably through Hollywood.

Chinese Influence

• Trade Relations:
  • Long-standing trade connections with China resulting in culinary staples like siopao, lumpia, and pancit, along with Chinese-derived commercial terminology.

Hindu Influence

• Cultural Beliefs:
  • Acceptance of horoscopes and zodiac signs, believing in cosmic arrangements affecting life events.

Cultural Perspectives

• The Traditional Concept:

  • Filipino culture viewed as united across physical, intellectual, moral, and spiritual planes, showcasing a core unity beneath diversity.

• The Nationalistic View:

  • Culture regarded as a reflection of the people's needs, historical context, values, and struggles.

• Cultural Dualism:

  • Philippines seen as a transitional society merging traditional and modern cultures while integrating selective foreign influences.

Supposed Social Filipino Traits

• Values System:

  • Shared cultural values emphasizing honor and status.

• Decision-Making:

  • Involves family consultation to avoid emotional impacts.

Traits Explored

• Cultural Emphasis:

  • Importance of social relationships and community.
  • Notable traits: hospitality, positivity, and high regard for women.

• Paternalism vs. Individualism:

  • Dependence on authority figures (paternalism) contrasted with self-centered aspirations (individualism).

• Amor-propio:

  • Protective emotional response concerning personal honor and dignity.

• "Jele-jele bago quiere":

  • Cultural behavior indicating initial refusal to offers despite desire for acceptance.

Kaluluwa at Budhi

• Zeus Salazar:
  • Doctorate in Entomology, Anthropology, and Culture from Université de Paris.
  • Linguistic proficiency in Spanish, French, German, Russian, and Malay.

Kaluluwa (Soul)

• Concept of Identity:

  • Two identities: the kaluluwa (soul/spirit) and the physical body.
  • Kaluluwa is derived from indigenous dialects suggesting a duality in existence.

• Human-Self Classification:

  • Labas na anyo: Physical appearance.
  • Loob na anyo: Internal functions crucial for personhood.
  • Lalim ng anyo: Character and soul contributing to identity.

Cultural Connections

• Conscience (Budhi):

  • Harmonizing with the kaluluwa, providing moral judgment based on actions and character rather than physical attributes.

• Implications of Separation:

  • Beliefs surrounding the suffering caused by a disconnection between kaluluwa and the body, represented in traditional narratives (e.g., possession).

Key Concepts of Filipino Values

• "Hiya", "Pakikipag-kapwa tao", "Diwa", "Kapwa":

  • Interconnection of external and internal self-reflections, acknowledging both personal identity and communal interactions.

• Anito:

  • Ancient deities representing ancestral spirits and nature protection, showcasing the spiritual values of indigenous cultures.