obsessing over debunking Philippine mythology

  

 ''myths and legends are non factual by nature how can you disprove something that is clearly symbolic to begin with ?''

myths and legends are inherently symbolic and often serve as narratives that convey cultural values, beliefs, and ideologies rather than factual accounts. Attempting to disprove them in a factual sense is ironic and aslo challenging because they are not intended to be understood as literal truth.

However, disagreements or attempts to discredit myths and legends can still arise due to various reasons:

Cultural Bias: The dismissal or discrediting of certain myths and legends can be influenced by cultural biases or prejudices. Individuals from different cultural backgrounds may view myths from other cultures as primitive, irrational, or inferior, leading to attempts to discredit them.

1. Cultural Superiority Complex: Individuals hailing from cultures marked by a legacy of colonialism or dominance might harbor an unconscious sense of superiority regarding their own cultural heritage and viewpoints. Consequently, they may tend to dismiss or undermine indigenous beliefs and narratives, such as those found in Filipino mythology, deeming them as inferior or primitive.

FILIPINO INFERIORITY COMPLEX

foreigner pleasing and thinking foreigners know more is one huge symptom of inferiority complex. Trying to please foreigners and in the process antagonising and seeing Filipino story tellers as enemy or competition. instead of realizing the Philippines being an archipelago has so many languages and versions of stories.

1. Interpretation: Different individuals or groups may interpret myths and legends differently based on their cultural backgrounds, personal beliefs, or academic disciplines. This can lead to disagreements about the meaning or significance of certain myths

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3. Historical Accuracy: While myths and legends may not be factual in a literal sense, they may be based on historical events, cultural practices, or natural phenomena. Scholars and historians may analyze myths to understand aspects of a society's history, but this analysis doesn't necessarily aim to prove or disprove the myth's literal truth.

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7. Skepticism: Some individuals may approach myths and legends with skepticism, especially if they conflict with scientific knowledge or logical reasoning. While skepticism can be healthy, it's important to recognize the symbolic and cultural significance of myths rather than dismissing them outright.

why some foreigners are obsessed by it

1. Cultural Superiority Complex: Some individuals from cultures with a history of colonialism or dominance may possess a subconscious belief in the superiority of their own culture and perspectives. This can lead them to dismiss or discredit indigenous beliefs and narratives, including Filipino mythology, as inferior or primitive.

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3. Ignorance and Misunderstanding: Many foreigners may lack a deep understanding of Filipino culture, history, and mythology. Their dismissal of Filipino myths may stem from ignorance or misunderstandings about the richness and complexity of indigenous Filipino traditions.

CONFIMATION BIAS

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2. Confirmation Bias: Individuals may have preconceived notions or biases about what constitutes legitimate mythology or folklore based on their own cultural backgrounds. When Filipino myths do not align with their worldview or expectations, they may be more inclined to discredit them rather than critically engage with them.

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4. Eurocentrism in Academia: Western academic institutions and scholarship have historically privileged Eurocentric perspectives and narratives, often marginalizing or overlooking non-Western cultures and traditions. This can lead to a lack of representation and recognition for Filipino mythology in academic circles, further perpetuating misunderstandings and dismissals by foreigners.

Power Dynamics: The imbalance of power between Western countries and the Philippines, both historically and in the present day, can influence interactions between foreigners and Filipinos. Some foreigners may assert their perceived superiority or authority in discussions about Filipino mythology due to underlying power dynamics.

MYTHS SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN LITERALLY, THEY ARE METAPHORS TO EXPLAIN THINGS AND THEY CHANGE OVER TIME, SPECIFCALLY THE ORALLY PASSED STORIES

Philippine mythology and stories are rich with symbolism and metaphors that reflect the culture, values, and worldview of the Filipino people. These stories were passed down through generations, often through oral tradition, and their purpose is to convey deeper meanings, not to be understood as literal truths or historical facts. This symbolic nature of Philippine mythology is important to grasp, as it shapes how these stories should be interpreted and appreciate

In short, while myths and legends are not meant to be understood as factual accounts, disagreements or attempts to discredit them can still arise due to differences in interpretation, historical accuracy, cultural bias, and skepticism. It's important to approach myths with an understanding of their symbolic nature and cultural context rather than seeking to disprove them as factual truths.

Philippine Mythology Should Not Be Taken Literally

Understanding Philippine Mythology Symbolically

Philippine mythology should be viewed not as a literal history or a strict religious doctrine but as a rich treasury of symbolic narratives that provide insight into Filipino values, beliefs, and the human experience. These stories are alive because they continue to be told and retold, evolving to fit the times while retaining their symbolic core. Whether they’re used to explain the forces of nature, convey moral lessons, or explore the complexities of human emotions, these myths serve as powerful metaphors, connecting the past with the present and guiding the future.

In modern times, while these stories may not always be seen as literal truths, they continue to influence Filipino culture through art, literature, and everyday life. They remain an essential part of Filipino identity, reminding us that the stories we tell are often more about what they represent than what actually happened.