Understanding Filipino Ethnocentrism: A Closer Look at Its Effects on Society
The Philippines, as a cultural melting pot, is home to various ethnicities such as Tagalogs, Ilocanos, Cebuanos, and many more. Each ethnic group in the Philippines has its distinct customs, traditions, and beliefs. However, despite the uniqueness of each ethnicity, there is one prevailing behavior that exists in Philippine society: ethnocentrism.
Ethnocentrism is the tendency to perceive one’s culture as superior to others. In the Philippines, ethnocentrism takes many forms, such as regionalism, linguistic chauvinism, and cultural elitism. Although ethnocentrism is a prevalent phenomenon in the Philippines, it remains a largely misunderstood concept and demands closer attention to the way it affects society.
What Causes Ethnocentrism in the Philippines?
Ethnocentrism in the Philippines is deeply rooted in history. The country’s colonial past has left a legacy of cultural division and hierarchy among ethnic groups. During the Spanish colonial period, the colonizers imposed their culture and religion on the Filipino people, giving preference to those who converted to Catholicism. This created a cultural divide between the Christianized Filipinos and the non-Christianized ones.
The American colonial period further amplified the cultural divide by introducing English as the medium of instruction in schools. This gave rise to linguistic chauvinism, where English speakers were deemed superior to those who spoke Filipino languages. This also caused cultural elitism, where people who were well-versed in western cultures were considered more sophisticated than those who adhered to traditional Filipino customs and beliefs.
The Effects of Ethnocentrism on Society
Ethnocentrism has deep-seated impacts on Philippine society. It reinforces cultural division and marginalizes ethnic groups considered inferior. It also contributes to the perpetuation of stereotypes and prejudice that further divides the nation.
Regionalism and linguistic chauvinism, for instance, hinder progress in the Philippines. These attitudes prevent a united effort towards nation-building by creating distrust and animosity between regions and ethnic groups. Moreover, cultural elitism stifles the appreciation and promotion of traditional Filipino customs and beliefs, leading to the continued marginalization of indigenous communities.
Breaking the Cycle of Ethnocentrism
Breaking the cycle of ethnocentrism in the Philippines requires a concerted effort by the government, educational institutions, and the media. Education is key to dispelling stereotypes, prejudices, and misconceptions about ethnic groups. It can teach students to appreciate diversity and promote respect for different cultures.
The media can also play a crucial role in promoting unity and inclusivity in Philippine society. Instead of perpetuating stereotypes and prejudice, the media can highlight the beauty and richness of each ethnic group in the country. Additionally, the government can enact policies that promote equality and eliminate discrimination based on ethnicity, language, and culture.
Conclusion
Ethnocentrism in the Philippines is a complex issue that demands attention and action. Understanding the roots of ethnocentrism and its effects on society is the first step towards breaking the cycle of cultural division and promoting inclusivity. By working together, we can build a society that celebrates diversity and recognizes the value of each ethnic group in the Philippines.
