Can a Filipino truly become a philosopher? This thought-provoking question has sparked significant discussion within academic circles across the Philippines. The answer requires understanding what constitutes a philosopher and examining the unique Philippine context of philosophical development.
The Historical Roots of Philippine Philosophy
Philosophy in the Philippines has a long and established history, formally beginning in the 16th century. The University of Santo Tomas introduced philosophy as part of its curriculum in 1611, marking the official start of philosophical education in the country. Over the centuries, Philippine philosophy evolved significantly, with the 20th century witnessing particularly important developments.
The concept of philosophizing goes beyond simply earning a degree in philosophy. It involves actively engaging with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, morality, and values. In the Philippine context, this means addressing questions specific to Filipino society, such as the nature of Philippine politics or understanding the Filipino mental framework through rational analysis.
Two Views on Filipino Philosophy
There has been considerable debate among Filipino intellectuals about whether a distinct Filipino philosophy exists. Two prominent views have emerged from this discussion, each representing valid approaches to philosophical inquiry.
Professor Alfredo Co from the University of Santo Tomas represents one perspective, viewing Filipino philosophy as comprising the collective works of Filipino philosophers. This approach focuses on the contributions of individual Filipino thinkers to philosophical discourse.
The contrasting view, championed by Emerita Quito, a philosophy professor at De La Salle University now regarded as a leading female philosopher, defines Filipino philosophy as reflecting the worldview of the Filipino people as embedded in their culture. Professor Quito is credited with helping formalize philosophizing in the Philippines during her time.
Both perspectives offer valuable insights. The quest for indigenous Filipino worldview, as seen in works like Karl Gaspar's Mindanawon/Lumad Philosophy, represents an important philosophical endeavor, though some argue that cultural heritage alone might provide a limited view of reality.
The Path Forward for Filipino Philosophers
The potential for Filipinos to become philosophers faces no natural barriers. Success depends on courage and independence of thought. Filipino thinkers must dare to tackle universal philosophical themes independently rather than merely applying Western philosophical doctrines to Filipino contexts.
Original philosophical thought is entirely possible when Filipino philosophers explore both their indigenous worldview and universal themes accessible to all humanity. By addressing diverse themes independently, Filipino philosophers can achieve recognition equal to their Western counterparts.
The key lies in overcoming intellectual insecurity and embracing the daring spirit exemplified by historical figures like Galileo Galilei, who challenged prevailing Aristotelian views of the solar system. Similarly, Filipino philosophers must develop the confidence to generate original ideas that could potentially influence international philosophical discourse.
The two views represented by Co and Quito both represent valid philosophical quests. Filipino philosophy can flourish through exploring cultural specificity while also engaging with universal questions that transcend geographical boundaries.
