WHY FILIPINOS DOUBT THEIR OWN PEOPLE WHEN IT COMES TO TELLING MYTHS AND LEGEND, IROICALLY WHY DO THEY BELIEVE FOREIGNERS MORE?

 The phenomenon of Filipinos doubting their own people when it comes to myths and legends, while ironically believing foreigners more, can be attributed to several factors:

1. Colonial Mentality: Centuries of colonization by foreign powers, particularly Spain and the United States, have ingrained a sense of inferiority complex among some Filipinos. This colonial mentality often leads to a subconscious belief that foreign perspectives and narratives are more authoritative or credible than those of their own culture.

2. Education System: The Philippine education system historically prioritized Western knowledge and perspectives, often neglecting or marginalizing indigenous beliefs, myths, and legends. As a result, many Filipinos grow up learning more about foreign cultures and mythologies than their own, leading to a lack of familiarity and confidence in their own cultural heritage.

3. Media Influence: Mainstream media in the Philippines frequently portrays Western culture and perspectives as more sophisticated or desirable compared to indigenous Filipino traditions. This perpetuates the notion that foreign sources are more trustworthy or credible when it comes to matters of mythology and legend.

4. Globalization: The rise of globalization and the dominance of Western media and cultural products further reinforce the idea that foreign narratives are superior. This can lead to a preference for foreign interpretations of myths and legends over local ones.

5. Lack of Preservation and Promotion: Indigenous Filipino myths and legends are not always preserved or promoted effectively within the country. As a result, many Filipinos may not have access to accurate or comprehensive information about their own cultural heritage, making them more inclined to trust foreign sources instead.

Addressing these factors requires efforts to promote cultural pride, inclusivity, and education that prioritize indigenous Filipino perspectives and narratives. By celebrating and preserving their own myths and legends, Filipinos can cultivate a stronger sense of cultural identity and confidence in their own heritage.

The aggression or dismissal of Filipino mythology by some foreigners may stem from a variety of factors:

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.

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.

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2. 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.

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4. 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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6. 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.

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It's important to note that not all foreigners exhibit aggression or dismissal towards Filipino mythology, and many individuals are genuinely interested in learning and appreciating diverse cultural traditions. Encouraging respectful dialogue, cross-cultural exchange, and education about Filipino mythology can help combat misconceptions and promote greater understanding and appreciation of indigenous Filipino heritage.