Idealism versus pragmatics

Posted by JoeAm on October 29, 2018 · 73 Comments 

By JoeAm I’ve long held the view that there is some idealized form of a more perfect Philippines. A lot of the articles and much of the discussion here has oriented around understanding “the way it is”, and then proposing the actions that are needed to get to a richer, healthier, more secure, and more … Continue reading →

Category Blogging/Journalism, Citizenship/Patriotism, Culture and Arts, Education, Philippine Politics

Emotionalism versus reason and discipline

Posted by JoeAm on October 22, 2018 · 111 Comments 

By JoeAm One of the things that fascinates me is the emotionalism of humankind, versus our great strength that allows us to dominate other animals, our ability to undertake complex reasoning. I think the development of humankind during the last 100 years was toward more powerful reasoning and the application of enhanced powers for enrichment … Continue reading →

Category Culture and Arts, Education, Philippine Government

Filipino culture is not damaged, it is just fluid

Posted by JoeAm on October 5, 2018 · 157 Comments 

By JoeAm Most contributors here at the Society of Honor seek understanding more than anything. The cultural character of the Philippines, and Filipinos, is the center of much discussion here. I’d like to summarize a few highlights of my own understanding, and probe a new thought in some detail. Before doing that, I have to … Continue reading →

Category Crime/Corruption, Culture and Arts, Education, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government

The Barangay: solution or problem

Posted by JoeAm on October 3, 2018 · 99 Comments 

By JoeAm We’ve had numerous discussions here at the blog about the barangay system and whether it works to good advantage or not. The general consensus is that it is ‘troubled’, to be kind, but that there are some aspects that are valuable. Although I don’t want to get tedious about all the rules, because … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Culture and Arts, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government

In a world of liars, let the honest people shine!

Posted by JoeAm on October 1, 2018 · 43 Comments 

By Joe Am How do you measure the value of integrity, of dignity, of rising above our mundane little lot in life to give yourself to humanity? The Ramon Magsaysay Awards are granted to people of Asia who do just that. Bharat Vatwani from India was one of six people so honored this year. “Vatwani … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Culture and Arts, Education, Family/Parenting/Children, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government