Ella Joy Wagan

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1. Do you agree that the Philippines is a collectivist society? Give at least two (2)
concrete examples that would illustrate and support your argument.

I agree that the Philippines is a collectivist society. Individuals in the Philippines tend
to see themselves as members of a group because they live in a collectivist society. For
Filipinos, the collective interests frequently take priority over personal concerns.
Filipinos have a strong sense of belonging to their group, which they express by telling
stories or information about their family, barangay (village), or town.
Filipinos' interpersonal behavior is explained by a key value called kapwa (fellowship
or unity). The word pertains to a shared identity that binds people together regardless of
their money or social status. Kapwa is linked to Filipino society's collectivist nature.
What is excellent for one person is thought to be good for the entire group and should
be shared with others. It is an insult to be labeled as having no kapwa since it suggests
that the person does not belong to a community.

2. How does our cultural orientation shape/impact our idea of self, especially as a
Filipino? Give at least two (2) concrete examples that would illustrate and support
your opinion.

Culture has a major role in shaping our identity. A person's perception of their
own cultural identity develops from birth and is molded by the values and attitudes
present at home and in the surrounding environment, with the cultural identity relating to
our need to belong at its core. Our perceptions of ourselves and others are shaped by
culture. When children are with adults in some cultures, for example, they are expected
to be quiet and respectful. This does not imply that a quiet child is lacking in self-
assurance. It's crucial to note that not all families teach the principles of individualism,
competition, and aggressiveness that are widespread in mainstream American culture.
Young children absorb and learn from the stories that are told to them, which frequently
emphasize a family's beliefs and have an impact on a child's self-concept. As children
get older and go to school and spend time with their peers, they discover that not
everyone shares their family's views.
Reference:

Filipino Culture - Core Concepts. (2016). Retrieved October 5, 2021, from Cultural Atlas

website: https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/filipino-culture/filipino-culture-core-

concepts

‌Does culture shape our identity? (2021). Retrieved October 5, 2021, from WYA website:

https://www.wya.net/op-ed/does-culture-shape-our-identity/