GE8- Ethics
(Midterm topic) Module 1:
Lesson 3: Universal Values
The empirical basis of cultural relativism is that cultures are dramatically
different in their views of what is right or wrong. When it comes to important
moral issues, there are three values that are universal (Rachels, 2004).
The 3 Universal Values shared by all cultures are:
1. Caring for the young
2. Murder is wrong
3. Tell the truth
The theoretical point here is that “there are some moral rules that all
societies will have in common because those rules are necessary for society to
survive” (Rachels, 2004). Imagine if human beings do not care for their young.
Homo sapiens will eventually be an extinct species. In the same manner, we
will eventually be wiped out too if people were free to kill other people.
Moreover, what kind of society will it be if everyone’s statement presumes that
it is a lie What reason do you have to pay attention to anyone? If lying is our
way of life, how can you believe what your teacher is teaching? What is the use
of having a teacher in the first place? What is the use of talking to each other
at all?
Lesson 4: The Filipino Way
Qualities of the Filipino Moral Identity
The Filipino culture is a mix of both Eastern and Western cultures.
Psychologist, educator and former Chairperson of the Commission on
Higher Education Dr. Patricia B. Licuanan wrote that the strengths and weaknesses
of the Filipino character are rooted in factors such as:
1. The home environment
2. The social environment
3. Culture and language
4. History
5. The educational system
6. Religion
7. The economic environment
8. The political environment
9. Mass media, and
[Link] and role models
Strengths of the Filipino Character
The Filipino traits listed here is certainly not exhaustive, but these are what
we have in common the most. The strong aspects of the Filipino character are:
1. Pakikipagkapwa-tao
2. Family Orientation
3. Joy and Humor
4. Flexibility, Adaptability and Creativity
5. Hard work and Industry
6. Faith and Religiosity
7. Ability to survive
Weaknesses of the Filipino Character
Aside from identifying the roots and strengths of the Filipino characters, Dr.
Patricia B. Licuanan also pointed out our weaknesses. This is important because
this enables the Filipino to identify the areas that need improvement to grow and
develop as a person. An informed and improved Filipino will also result in a
stronger and more progressive nation. Generally, the weaknesses are:
1. Extreme Personalism
2. Extreme Family-Centeredness
3. Lack of Discipline
4. Passivity and Lack of Initiative
5. Colonial Mentality
6. Kanya-Kanya Syndrome
7. Lack of Self-Analysis and Self-Reflection
Activity
Instruction: Answer the questions concisely. Write your answers on ½ sheet of
yellow paper and to be submitted during our F2F schedule.
1. What positive Filipino trait can you most relate to and how has the trait
helped you become a better person?
2. Think about a personal negative experience. Analyze how this was rooted in
Filipino qualities and from hindsight, how you would have done things
differently.