Political Science and Decolonization
Political Science focuses on how governments and politics function at every level, from local communities to international relations. It examines the ethics of power and explores essential concepts like community, identity, justice, and citizenship that affect everyone's daily life.
The colonial character of Social Sciences had devastating consequences, destroying indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions in many regions. In response, scholars from former colonies began pushing for the decolonization of Social Sciences. Filipino social scientists like Virgilio Enriquez, Zeus Salazar, and Prospero Covar championed the indigenization movement, which led to the development of Sikolohiyang Pilipino (Filipino Psychology) in the 1960s.
This movement critically examined Western psychology's theories and methodologies while creating a psychology based on Filipino indigenous knowledge, values, and ways of living. The goal was to establish approaches that were truly appropriate and meaningful to Filipinos rather than imposing Western frameworks.
Remember this: Developing sensitive Social Sciences isn't just academic - it's about creating tools that actually address local communities' real problems and concerns.
In our globalized world, developing culturally sensitive Social Sciences is crucial. They serve as powerful tools against cultural homogenization by preserving traditions and collective memories that empower communities to maintain their identity amid the flood of Western influences.