GEC 11: Anthropology of the Self

Questions and Answers

What does the term "Matigsalug" refer to?

An indigenous group primarily in urban areas

People who live along the Mindanao River

People along the Salug River (correct)

Farmers in the northern Philippines

Which of the following practices is NOT associated with the Matigsalug?

Chewing of betel nut

Circumcision

Fishing with nets (correct)

Tattooing

What is a primary food staple for the Matigsalug during harvest time?

Corn grits

Rice (correct)

Sweet potatoes

Cassava

How have recent influences changed the lifestyle of the Matigsalug?

They have adopted more sedentary land cultivation. Signup and view all the answers

Which cultural expression reflects the earlier hunting-and-gathering lifestyle of the Matigsalug?

Fashion of bright colored mid-rib blouses Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'anthropology' derive from?

Greek words meaning man and study of. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of anthropology according to the text?

To understand cultural and biological interactions. Signup and view all the answers

According to Edward Tylor, how is culture defined?

Knowledge, belief, art, morals, law, and habits acquired as part of society. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'ethnic identity'?

A consciousness of sharing certain characteristics within a group. Signup and view all the answers

How does the egocentric self perceive individual identity?

As distinct and autonomous from others. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true about the sociocentric self?

It views the self as dependent on social contexts. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic is associated with the sociocentric view of self in Japanese culture?

Recognition of the importance of community and social groups. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best contrasts the egocentric and sociocentric selves?

Egocentric self is independent while sociocentric self is socially oriented. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary distinguishing feature of interdependent identity?

Connections with others in a social context Signup and view all the answers

In Gennep’s three-phased rite of passage, what does the liminal phase signify?

Transition between leaving one identity and not yet entering another Signup and view all the answers

What role does a name play in the context of personal identity?

It individualizes a person and signifies group membership Signup and view all the answers

Which identity type reflects a more egocentric viewpoint, particularly common in American culture?

Independent identity Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of initiation rituals on an individual's identity?

They encourage acceptance of new perspectives and identities Signup and view all the answers

What common challenge do individuals face in self-identification, according to Golubovic?

Overcoming traditionally established habits and parental self-image Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a sociocentric view of the self as indicated in the content?

Emphasis on community ties and cooperation Signup and view all the answers

Which phase in Gennep's rite of passage involves formal integration into a new identity?

Incorporation Signup and view all the answers

Which ethnic group is primarily concentrated in the northern and western parts of Bukidnon?

Talaandig Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the monotheistic God believed by the Bukidnon traditional people?

Magbabaya Signup and view all the answers

What describes the Umayamnon people's dental practice?

They frequently chew betel nut and blacken their teeth. Signup and view all the answers

What common trait do both the Talaandig and Higaonon communities share regarding Mt. Kitanglad?

They claim it as a sacred site. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the culture of the Higaonon tribe?

Centered around peace and harmony Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following beliefs is NOT attributed to the Manobo people's religion?

Belief in a monotheistic God. Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason Umayamnon people blacken their teeth?

For medicinal purposes and decoration. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Higaonon costume?

It symbolizes pride and identity. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary language family spoken by the Manobo people?

Manobo language family Signup and view all the answers

What physical characteristic is commonly associated with the Bukidnon people?

They have an average height of about five feet. Signup and view all the answers

Which cultural artifact is NOT associated with Umayamnon craftsmanship?

Beaded sandals Signup and view all the answers

How do the tribes in Bukidnon derive their names?

From rivers or watershed areas. Signup and view all the answers

What is the average elevation of Bukidnon described as rolling grassland plateau?

$915$ meters Signup and view all the answers

What is a distinctive feature of the Umayamnon people's appearance?

They have filed teeth to uniform length. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the Bukidnon belief system differentiates it from the Manobo belief system?

The concept of an omnipotent deity. Signup and view all the answers

What ritual do the Higaonons perform to resolve internal conflicts?

Tampudashu Balagun Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Anthropological Perspective of the Self

Anthropology originates from the Greek words "anthropos" (man) and "logos" (study), emphasizing a holistic view of human nature.
Examines the interaction between cultural and biological processes to shape human experiences and identities.

Cultural Construction of Self and Identity

Culture defined as a "complex whole" encompassing various elements such as knowledge, beliefs, art, morals, and customs (Edward Tylor).
Culture guides behavior through shared understandings, influencing individual lifestyles.

Ethnic Identity

Defined as the recognition of shared characteristics such as language and culture within a group, fostering a sense of belonging and individuality (James L. Peacock, 1986).

Two Types of Self

Egocentric Self:
- Views the self as autonomous and independent.
- Each individual is seen as a distinct entity with self-contained characteristics.
Sociocentric Self:
- Perceives the self as context-dependent and shaped by social settings.
- Emphasizes interdependence and social orientation over individual autonomy.

Cultural Perspectives on Self

In Japan, a sociocentric view prioritizes interdependence within groups.
Chinese culture also favors sociocentric dynamics, emphasizing kin ties and cooperation.
American culture generally adopts an egocentric viewpoint, valuing assertiveness and independence.

Identity Construction

Identity toolbox encompasses features individuals emphasize while constructing their social selves.
Two types of identity:
- Independent Identity: Focuses on individual traits and personal goals.
- Interdependent Identity: Centers on social connections and relations with others.

Personal Naming and Identity

Personal naming is a crucial element in establishing one's identity and belonging within a community.
A name signifies individuality and social legitimacy; absence of a name implies the absence of a self.

Rites of Passage (Gennep’s Three-Phased Rite of Passage)

Separation: Detachment from previous identities (e.g., moving to a new place).
Liminal: Transition state between old and new identities (e.g., orientation for freshmen).
Incorporation: Integration of changes into a new identity marked by rituals (e.g., weddings, graduations).

Identity Struggles

Refers to the conflict arising between self-perceived identity and the identity attributed by others.
Overcoming traditional and familial imposed self-images can be challenging for self-identification (Golubovic).

Indigenous Peoples of Bukidnon

Talaandig: One of 110 indigenous groups in the Philippines; known for oral traditions, religious rituals, and cultural practices centered around Mount Kitanglad.
Higaonon: Peace-loving group focused on harmony; rich in traditional rituals and culture connected to their ancestral land.
Bukidnon: Indigenous group with distinct physical traits; predominantly monotheistic, believing in a supreme deity "Magbabaya."
Umayamnon: Dwell in Pantaron mountains, known for traditional customs; practices unique dental decoration.
Manobo: Diverse ethnic groups linked by language; culture steeped in traditions and beliefs about spirits and agriculture.
Matigsalug: Residing in Tigwa-Salug Valley with practices such as tattooing and betel nut chewing; promote values of honesty and cooperation.

Cultural Impact on Self-Perception

Collective identity plays a crucial role in individual self-conception across various indigenous groups.
Cultural expressions shape personal and group identity, interlinking tradition with modern influences.

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Description

This quiz explores the anthropological perspective of the self, emphasizing its embeddedness in culture. Students will engage with key concepts in anthropology, analyze various conceptualizations of the self, and recognize cultural diversities in self-formation. Prepare to discuss and compare these essential ideas.