S A S 1 T F I

WINGS OF
REFLEXIVITY
B Y J U L I U S G U T I E R R E Z

The abstract drawing that I created portrays one of the most prominent ideas
that encompasses all the lessons from the course - the reflexive and agentic
power of a human being. From the moment we are born, we become members
of a particular culture. We are raised by our families and guardians, allowing
us to learn what is necessary through learning. As we continue to grow, we
mature and develop our principles and beliefs. Society and its agents then
dictate what we can and cannot do. At our homes, we learn about Filipino
values and manners. At school, we learn about religion, academics, and career.
When we become adults, we become part of the workforce and then start
contributing to the society. Based on these, a normalizing power can be seen in
every aspect of our lives wherein we are subjected to follow disciplinary
practices that are embedded in our knowledge. Culture and society obligate us
to follow the norms and traditions. Biology, in the eyes of some people, dictate
what men and women should and should not do. Citizenship enforces us to
abide by the laws and to be a good member of the society. Current media
affects our thoughts on body image, sexual orientation, and on dating. Filipino
values plant onto our minds the concept of ‘pakikipagkapwa’ and filial piety.
Even the present time influences our perceptions on career and work. However,
we are not passive constructions of the society. This is because we possess
reflexivity and agency which enables us to have an active role in making and
remaking culture. We possess the ability to make a change based on our
actions, thoughts, and feelings. We can make our own decisions despite what
others and the society thinks and dictates. As can be seen on the drawing, we
possess wings which enables us to overcome the hands of the subjugator and
its normalizing power. But this does not equal complete freedom and
recklessness. With agency, we are still made responsible for our choices and
decisions. That is why we must fly wisely with our wings and think carefully
before we act.