Binding: Paperback Dewey Decimal Number: 306.09599 EAN: 9789711003371 ISBN: 9711003376 Label: Cellar Book Shop Manufacturer: Cellar Book Shop Number Of Pages: 184 Publication Date: 1987-07 Publisher: Cellar Book Shop Studio: Cellar Book Shop
Editorial Reviews:
Spotlight customer reviews:
Customer Rating: Summary: Valuable Comment: In the preface the author writes, "To a foreigner, living in the Philippine culture is like playing a game one has never played before and of which the rules haven't been explained well." As an American living in the Philippines- I have found this to be true. Simple day-to-day social, economical, and physical things that we know how to accomplish in America are now all of a sudden frustrating and seemingly impossible.
Though somewhat outdated, this book is an excellent guide to Filipino culture. It is written in clear English, and is organized in three main sections. The first section is an orientation on Filipino culture. While some generalizations are not entirely accurate for today (almost 20 years after the writing of the book), or even accurate for all parts of the Philippines (the culture varies from island to island), the book does a great job of communicating the ways and customs of Filipino people. The second section is similar to the first and is entitled, Relating With Filipinos. This focuses more on the communication and relational aspects of the culture, in which there are great differences from Western culture. The third section of the book is much different is a more practical guide to handling culture shock and actually living in the Philippines.
While I found the book very helpful and educational even for an expatriate who has lived in the country for over a year, there are parts that I found outright incorrect. Perhaps the culture has changed in the past 20 years, but there are parts of the book that seem to be written for the sole purpose of attracting tourists. There are certain exaggerations and misrepresentations that made me cringe (especially in the last third of the book).
Some positives about the book- from the beginning it encourages the foreigner to adapt a learners attitude. After all, the foreigner is the guest, and should not try and act superior to the host culture. The book clearly and correctly depicts the religious aspect of Filipino culture- the Philippines is often called the only Christian nation in Asia, and this is misleading. The book traces history to show how things developed into what is now today a `Catholic' nation. This section was excellent. There is also an excellent section in the first part of the book contrasting the Westerner and the Filipino. This contrast is helpful in seeing what areas the Westerner and the Filipino might struggle when the two are thrown together.
For myself, this book was valuable. I am living right in the middle of this culture, yet I am an acculturated American. This has led to a lot of confusion and misunderstandings (on my part, and on the part of my hosts). The more I learn (especially when it is directly from the people), the easier my life will become in this country. Not only will life be easier, but more importantly, my work will be more successful. I would recommend this book to anyone planning on living in the Philippines, or for anyone in a relationship with a Filipino.
Customer Rating: Summary: Very good for who wants to now about the people Comment: Everyone who wants to know more about the Philippino and their customs should read this book. It contains a very good information how you should tread the people.
