Anthropological Perspectives of the Self

Anthropology is the study of human beings in all aspects, including their biology,
society, and culture. The anthropological perspective on the self looks at how the self is
influenced by culture. Three key anthropologists who have written extensively on the
Filipino self are Zeus Salazar, Prospero Covar, and Harry Triandis.

Zeus Salazar

Salazar believed that our reality is rooted in society and learning, and that language is
essential for articulating this reality. We learn about our society and culture from our
family through language, and in turn, language helps us to understand ourselves.

Pantayong Pananaw
Salazar's perspective on the self is called pantayong pananaw, which is a Tagalog term
that means "from-us-for-us perspective." Pantayong pananaw refers to any social
collectivity, such as the Filipino people, which has a relatively unified and internally
articulated linguistic-cultural structure of communication and interaction, and/or a sense
of oneness of purpose and existence.

Salazar argued that the Filipino self is a pantayo self, meaning that it is shaped by our
shared language, culture, values, and experiences. He also believed that pantayong
pananaw is essential for Filipinos to develop a strong sense of identity and to build a
more just and equitable society.

Contrast between Western and Eastern Perspectives on the Self

Western and Eastern perspectives on the self differ in a number of ways. Western
perspectives tend to emphasize the individual and the importance of self-expression
and autonomy. Eastern perspectives, on the other hand, tend to emphasize the
collective and the importance of interdependence and harmony.

Individualistic and Collectivistic Cultures

Individualistic cultures, such as those found in the West, place a high value on individual
autonomy and independence. Collectivistic cultures, such as those found in the East,
place a high value on group harmony and interdependence.

Individualistic and collectivistic cultures also differ in their understanding of the self. In
individualistic cultures, the self is seen as separate from the group. In collectivistic
cultures, the self is seen as interconnected with the group.

Conclusion

Anthropological perspectives on the self emphasize the importance of culture in shaping

the self. Culture influences our values, beliefs, behaviors, and experiences. It also
influences how we see ourselves and our relationship to others.

Understanding the anthropological perspective on the self can help us to better

understand ourselves and others. It can also help us to appreciate the diversity of
human cultures.