Lesson 8: Political Self

What is Political Self

o In the Philippine context, Political Self is a reflection of your
selfhood in relation to his national identity.

explores how our social contexts profoundly affect our mental

health, well-being, and character
Filipinos in General
Strengths of Filipino Character
Pakikipagkapwa-Tao

o It is manifested in a basic sense of justice,

fairness, and concern for others. It is also
demonstrated in the Filipino’s ability to empathize
and help others in times of need (pakikiramay), in
the practice of bayanihan, and in the famous Filipino
hospitality.
Family Orientation

o It is manifested in the honor and respect given to

parents and elders, in the care given to children, the
generosity towards kin in need, and in the great sacrifices
one endures for the welfare of the family.
Joyand Humor
o These are manifested in the Filipino’s love for socials
and celebrations, in our capacity to laugh even in the
most trying of times, and in the appeal of political satire.
Flexibility,Adaptability,and Capability

These are manifested in the ability to adapt to life in the

any part of the world and in the ability to make new things
out of old scraps. It is likewise seen in the ability to accept
change.
Hard Work and Industry

These are manifested most noticeably in

willingness to take risks with jobs abroad and
while there, to work at two or three jobs.
Faith and Religiosity

o These are manifested in the Filipinos’ deep

faith in God. Our innate religiosity enables us
to comprehend and genuinely accept reality in
the context of God’s will and plan.
Ability to Survive

This is shown in our capacity to persevere despite

difficult times and in our ability to get by on so very
little.
Weaknesses of Filipino Characters
Extreme Personalism
o This is manifested in the tendency to give personal
interpretation to actions, thus, a sincere question may be
viewed as a challenge to one’s competence or positive
feedback may be interpreted as a sign of special
affection.
Extreme Family-Centeredness
This is manifested through the use of one’s office and
power as a means of promoting the interest of the family,
in factionalism, patronage, political dynasties.
Lack of Discipline
This is manifested through causal and relaxed
attitude towards time and space which manifests itself
in lack of precision and compulsiveness, in poor time
management, and in procrastination.
Passivity and Lack of Initiative
These are described as the tendency to wait to be
told what has to be done and strong reliance on
others to do things for us. Filipinos are also
described as submissive to those in authority and are
not likely to raise issues or to question decisions.
Colonial Mentality

o The inferiority towards Filipino

culture and actual preference for
foreign things.
Kanya-kanya Syndrome

This is evident through demonstrating selfish and

self-serving attitudes that generate a feeling of envy and
competitiveness toward others, particularly to one’s
peers who seem to have gained some status or prestige.
Lack of Self-Analysis and Self-Reflection

This is described as the tendency to be superficial and

even somewhat flighty. In the face of serious problems,
both personal and social, there is lack of analysis and
reflection.
Thankyou!