POLITICAL SELF

“Man is a political animal” – Aristotle

Politics centers on actions among a number of people involving influence. It is the process of
who gets what, when, and how with concepts of power, elites, legitimacy, and authority are
related to it. It promotes ideologies about democracy, citizenship, human rights, freedom, family,
health, and other issues vital to human development.
The Political Self then organizes self-relevant information about politics, including one’s
beliefs, attitudes, and affiliations, beliefs about leadership and one’s leadership style, how one
submits to leadership and how people socialize and function as members of the society.
 
The Development of Political Self

1. Family – The family is the primary source of all basic and innate needs of a person. A
child often takes after his parents’ political outlook in politics.
2. School/Education – Education is the main agent for the political socialization of the
young into the national political culture. It shapes a child into a morally upright citizens
emphasizing one’s respective roles in the society.
3. Church - The teachings, services, and activities of the church can contribute in the ideals
of politics.
4. Mass Media – there has been old arguments about that media has no sufficient evidence
that mass media is a casual element in a developing a child’s understanding and behavior
about politics. However, recent researches belie this, stating that media can change people’s
mind through programs relating to current events. Internet also develops one’s political self
online as they learn about concerns and political events.
5. Other people - The traits and values of the individuals in the society greatly affect the
attitudes and beliefs of an individual.

 
The Political Self and Being a Filipino
After three centuries of colonization, the Philippines today has only surfaced. The Filipino
identity and culture was molded by foreign culture beliefs, language, and religion. Aside from
race, ethnicity, and physical characteristics, important values and traits can also contribute to
one’s national identity.

Strengths of the Filipino Character:

1. Hospitability

2. Adoptability and resiliency

3. Resourcefulness and creativity

4. Faithfulness

5. Bayanihan

6. Thriftiness

7. Politeness

8. Family Oriented

9. Bravery

10. Sense of Humor

11. Discretion and dignity

12. Gratefulness

13. Honesty and commitment

14. Generosity and Helpfulness