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Saturday, September 03, 2005
Speak out: Culture lag
By Cliff Sheppard
BF Homes, Lapu-Lapu City
There have been articles that reflected on the attitude of Filipinos to help explain why the Philippines is still a poor country even though it is rich in natural resources. Yes, it is true that the attitude of the people has a great impact on the progress of a country.
What are the factors that impact on the attitudes of people?
Part of it is what they are taught as children by "educators," parents and peers.
Another factor is life experience, such as massive corruption in the government (corruption having reached a level where it prevents healthy economic growth and gainful employment opportunities).
These factors are greatly reflected by "culture lag."
A culture lag is an aspect of a past culture that has been preserved and still exists in contemporary way of life. In the process of culture change, certain elements that change more slowly than others tend to persist in the society even after more efficient or rational elements have been developed to replace them.
Culture lags may also result from economic and physical barriers in isolated peripheral areas. For example, dependence on kerosene lamps persists outside of areas that are electrified and even in some cities where impoverished slum dwellers cannot afford to install and pay for electricity.
Some culture lags no longer have any useful function and result from mere ingrained habit, lethargy or continuation of a style.
When Filipinos begin to change their attitude they will also change their culture.
In doing so they will begin the long painful process of eliminating corruption.
With at least most of the corruption removed, the Philippines has the potential to become a major economic power in Southeast Asia, and, once again, have an education system second to none in all of Asia.
Of course, with this comes the potential for employment opportunities and excellent medical services. Wouldn't it be interesting if foreign contract workers came to the Philippines from other countries?
All it takes is a change in attitude and time to accomplish.
(September 3, 2005 issue)
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