Chapter 1.3 Social, Cultural and Political Change

Summary

The script discusses the evolution of social, cultural, and political identities, particularly in the context of Filipino women. It highlights the shift from traditional gender roles, like women being stay-at-home moms, to gaining rights such as suffrage in 1937. The advancement of technology and globalization has also transformed practices like dating, fashion, and OFW (Overseas Filipino Workers) lifestyles. While Filipino workers contribute to the economy, there are both positive and negative impacts, such as strengthened communities abroad but weakened family bonds due to physical distance.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Social, cultural, and political changes impact the concept of identity over time.
• 👩‍⚖️ Filipino women were traditionally confined to domestic roles and excluded from political participation.
• 📜 The campaign for women's suffrage in the Philippines gained ground in the 1930s, eventually allowing women to vote in 1937.
• 💪 The fight for suffrage empowered Filipino women and transformed their social and political identities.
• 📱 Technology has altered social customs, such as the evolution of romantic practices like harana, now replaced by digital forms.
• 🌻 Global trends, such as fashion and cultural influences (e.g., K-pop), have spread rapidly due to the internet.
• 👗 Fashion styles change over time but often cycle back, such as the return of high-waist jeans.
• 👷 Filipino Overseas Workers (OFWs) have influenced family values and practices while contributing significantly to the Philippine economy.
• 📦 The 'pasalubong' tradition, bringing gifts from abroad, is a notable cultural practice of Filipinos working overseas.
• 👨‍👩‍👦 The long-term separation of OFWs from their families can create emotional distance and affect familial bonds.

Q & A

How is the concept of identity related to social, cultural, and political change?

The concept of identity is closely related to social, cultural, and political change as it evolves with societal norms, cultural practices, and political systems. As these aspects of society change, so do the identities of individuals within that society.

What was the traditional role of Filipino women in the early 1900s?

In the early 1900s, Filipino women were traditionally expected to be stay-at-home moms, catering to the needs of their husbands, and were not allowed to vote or participate in politics, which were activities reserved for Filipino males.

What is suffrage and how did Filipino women gain this right?

Suffrage is the right to vote. Filipino women gained this right through a campaign for women's suffrage in the 1930s. They were eventually granted the right to vote after a plebiscite in 1937, which received over 400,000 votes in favor of women's suffrage.

How did the 1935 Philippine Constitution influence women's suffrage?

The 1935 Philippine Constitution allowed women to vote through a law passed by the National Assembly. It mandated a plebiscite on women's suffrage, requiring 300,000 votes to grant women the right to vote.

What is the significance of the suffragist movement in the Philippines?

The suffragist movement was significant as it was a precursor to the current rights that Filipino women enjoy. It helped transform the identity of Filipino women from being perceived as weak and unequal to men to being recognized as equal participants in society.

How has technology impacted social, cultural, and political change?

Technology has profound implications for social, cultural, and political change by altering the way people interact, pursue relationships, and access information. It has also led to a global interconnectedness, making people more similar across different regions.

What is an example of how technology has changed traditional courtship practices?

A traditional courtship practice like 'harana', where men would serenade women at their homes, has been modified with technology. Now, men might offer songs through videos or recorded music instead of in-person performances.

How has the internet influenced global cultural trends?

The internet has allowed for the rapid spread of cultural trends, making people across the world more similar. For example, the popularity of the sunflower design and K-pop has transcended geographical boundaries due to internet exposure.

What are some ways that fashion has changed over time as mentioned in the script?

Fashion has seen changes in women's clothing, such as the shift from long skirts to shorter ones, and in men's hairstyles, like the evolution from the standard Rizal hairstyle to more diverse styles like mohawks. Additionally, there have been cycles in fashion trends, such as the popularity of high-waist jeans and flare jeans.

How are Filipinos perceived globally and what are some of their contributions?

Filipinos are globally perceived as hard-working, with a significant number working abroad as temporary migrants or permanent immigrants. They contribute to the economy by sending remittances and are known for establishing Filipino communities and businesses in foreign countries.

What are some positive and negative effects of Filipinos working abroad?

Positive effects include the establishment of Filipino communities and businesses abroad, and the recognition of Filipino nurses for their kindness and care. Negative effects can include the strain on family bonds due to physical distance and the challenges of maintaining relationships through digital means.