The "political self"

the aspect of an individual's identity that is shaped by their

political beliefs, affiliations, and how they perceive
themselves as members of a larger society. This concept
stems from the understanding that people are not just private
individuals, but also social beings who engage in a political
world, where collective decisions are made about how society
should be organized.Key Components of the Political Self
Political Beliefs and Values
>The political self is heavily influenced by one's
political ideologies—whether conservative, liberal,
socialist, etc. These beliefs shape how individuals
view social issues, governance, and policies.
Political Identity and Group Affiliation:
>The political self is also shaped by the groups to
which a person belongs. This could include political
parties, movements, or advocacy groups. These
affiliations help individuals form their self-concept
based on shared beliefs and goals.
Civic Responsibility and Citizenship:
. he political self involves an understanding of one’s role
in society as a citizen. This includes engaging in activities
like voting, participating in protests, or contributing to
political discussions. Being an active citizen strengthens
the political self and connects personal identity to larger
societal systems.
Power, Agency, and Social Structures:
. The political self includes how a person perceives their
own agency in relation to societal power structures.
Individuals may view themselves as empowered to effect
change, or they might feel marginalized by systemic
barriers.
ContexCultural and Historical :
. The political self is shaped by the cultural and historical
environment in which one lives. Events like revolutions,
civil rights movements, or significant political shifts
influence how people see themselves within the political
landscape.
Interplay of Personal and Political Self:
. Understanding the political self requires recognizing
how individual identity interacts with broader societal
forces. Personal experiences—such as facing inequality,
gaining education, or being exposed to different political
ideas—affect how someone understands their political
self. This also includes how they perceive their capacity
to influence or navigate political systems.
 Elements of a Democratic Culture:
. Participation and Civic Engagemen:
. In a democratic culture, citizens actively participate in political life, not just by
voting, but by being involved in discussions, debates, community activities, and
decision-making processes.
>Respect for Rule of Law and Institutions:
. Democratic culture is underpinned by respect for the rule of law, where both
citizens and government officials adhere to legal frameworks, and institutions
operate fairly and impartially.
Pluralism and Respect for Diversity:
. A democratic culture values diversity and recognizes the rights of different groups,
whether ethnic, religious, gender-based, or political, to express their views and
contribute to society.

>Tolerance and Open Debate:

. Tolerance of opposing views is critical for democratic culture. Citizens and political
leaders must be willing to engage in open, respectful debate without resorting to
violence or authoritarian measures to silence dissent

. Accountability and Transparency:

. In a democratic culture, political leaders and institutions must be accountable to the
people. Transparency in decision-making processes, as well as checks and balances
on power, ensures that corruption is minimized, and public trust is maintained.
Equal Rights and Fair Treatment:
. A culture of democracy is built on the belief that all citizens have equal rights, and
systems must be in place to ensure that these rights are respected. Equal access to
justice, education, and political representation is central.
. Civic Education and Democratic Awareness:
. Education plays a vital role in promoting democratic values. Schools, media, and other
institutions help citizens understand their rights and responsibilities, the functioning of
democratic systems, and how to engage constructively in public life.
. Challenges to Establishing a Democratic Culture
. Authoritarianism.
. Leaders or groups who attempt to suppress dissent or limit freedoms pose a threat to
democratic culture. For instance, in some countries, leaders may use state institutions
to suppress opposition, restricting free speech and weakening democracy.
Political Apathy
. When citizens feel disengaged or disillusioned with the political system,
participation may decrease, weakening the democratic fabric of society.
-Social Inequality:
Economic and social inequality can undermine democratic culture by limiting the
ability of marginalized groups to fully participate in political processes.
 Filipino culture
. rooted in positive values that reflect the nation's history, traditions, and social
fabric. These values help shape the daily lives of Filipinos, fostering a sense
of community, respect, and resilience.
1. Pakikipagkapwa-tao (Respect for Others)
. This value reflects the deep sense of respect and consideration for others. It
emphasizes treating everyone with dignity and kindness, regardless of social status.
2. Utang na Loob (Gratitude and Debt of Gratitude)
. the sense of obligation to repay someone who has done you a favor or has helped
you in any way. Filipinos feel a strong duty to reciprocate kindness and support to
those who have aided them.
3. Pakikisama (Harmony and Smooth Interpersonal Relationships)
. Pakikisama is the desire to maintain smooth interpersonal relationships and avoid
conflict. Filipinos highly value social harmony and are willing to compromise or adjust
to maintain good relationships with others.
4. Bayanihan (Community Spirit)
. Bayanihan refers to the spirit of communal unity, cooperation, and helping one another
without expecting anything in return. This value reflects a strong sense of solidarity,
especially in times of need.
5. Familial Loyalty and Close Family Ties.
. Family is the cornerstone of Filipino society. Loyalty to family and close family ties are
crucial, and Filipinos often put the needs of the family before their own. This value
emphasizes interdependence, care, and support among family members.
6. Hiya (Sense of Shame or Propriety)
. Hiya is a sense of shame or embarrassment, which encourages individuals to behave
in ways that will not cause discomfort, embarrassment, or disgrace to themselves or
others. This value is closely related to maintaining social respectability and avoiding
actions that would harm one’s reputation or standing within the community.
7. Malasakit (Compassion and Concern for Others)
. Malasakit represents a deep sense of concern for others, especially those who are less
fortunate or in need. It encompasses empathy, compassion, and the willingness to help,
even if one has little to offer.
8. Resilience (Tibay ng Loob).
.. Resilience is the ability to adapt and recover from difficulties and challenges. Filipinos
are known for their positive attitude and strength in overcoming adversities, especially in
the face of natural calamities and economic difficulties.
9. Optimism and Joy (Masayahin and Positivity)
. Filipinos are generally known for their optimistic outlook on life. They maintain a positive
attitude, even in difficult situations, and often find humor and joy in everyday moments.
10. Hospitality.
. a well-known Filipino value, where guests, whether family, friends, or strangers, are
welcomed warmly and generously. Filipinos take pride in being gracious hosts, making
visitors feel comfortable and cared for.
11. Delicadeza (Sense of Honor and Integrity)
. the value of behaving with integrity, fairness, and propriety, especially in social or
professional settings. It involves a strong sense of moral responsibility and doing what is
right.
12. Faith and Spirituality.
. Faith, especially in the context of religion, is deeply embedded in Filipino culture. Most
Filipinos are religious, particularly Roman Catholics, and they draw strength, hope, and
guidance from their faith.
13. Hard Work and Industriousness.
. a value that Filipinos take pride in, especially in relation to providing for their families
and building a better future. They work hard, often taking on multiple jobs or
responsibilities to ensure their families are cared for.
 “ Negative Filipino Traits and Values We Need To Get Rid Of
1. Crab Mentality (Kanya-kanya)
. This trait involves individuals attempting to hinder others' success due to jealousy or
envy, rather than supporting or celebrating their achievements
2. Mañana Habit (Mamaya Na)
. the tendency to procrastinate or delay tasks, often leading to rushed or incomplete
work.
3. Ningas-Kugon
. the behavior of starting tasks with enthusiasm but failing to sustain effort, leading to
unfinished or poorly executed projects.
4. Filipino Time.
. A cultural tendency to be tardy or not adhere strictly to scheduled times, affecting
productivity and reliability.
5. Bahala Na Attitude
. This mindset involves leaving everything to fate or divine providence, which can lead
to passivity and a lack of proactive effort.
6.Hiya (Sense of Shame
. a sense of shame can prevent inappropriate actions, an excessive focus on *hiya* can
hinder open communication and assertiveness.
7. Utang na Loob (Debt of Gratitude)
.” utang na loob” can become problematic when it fosters unhealthy obligations or
expectations in relationships.
8. Colonial Mentality
. A tendency to favor foreign products, ideas, or standards over local ones, often
stemming from a perceived inferiority of Filipino culture.
9. Balikbayan Box Mentality
. The expectation that Filipinos working abroad should send gifts or money back home,
which can lead to financial pressure and strained relationships.
10. Excessive Partying
.the celebrations are integral to Filipino culture, excessive partying can lead to financial
irresponsibility and neglect of important obligations.
THANK YOU!