BY L.KUSE|MAY 02 2024 -14:00 PM
Learning Log: Exploring Endogenous Beliefs
As a member of my ethnic group, I've been shaped by various teachings and beliefs that influence my worldview. In this learning log, I'll delve into two such beliefs that I consider endogenous to my ethnic background, reflecting on how they have shaped my perspective on the world.
Belief 1: Importance of Family
One fundamental belief ingrained in my ethnic group is the paramount importance of family. From a young age, I've been taught that family comes first and that maintaining strong familial bonds is crucial for personal well-being and success. This belief manifests in various ways, from the emphasis on filial piety to the expectation of providing support and care for one's relatives.
Growing up, I've witnessed how family gatherings are central to our social life, serving as occasions for celebration, support, and connection. The idea of extended family networks, where relatives beyond the nuclear family are considered integral parts of one's support system, is deeply ingrained in our cultural ethos.
While this belief fosters a strong sense of community and support, it can also lead to challenges such as pressure to conform to familial expectations and conflicts arising from differing values or interests. Reflecting on this belief, I recognize its influence on my own priorities and decisions, as well as the need to navigate the balance between individual autonomy and familial obligations.
Belief 2: Respect for Elders and Ancestors
Another core belief in my ethnic group is the reverence for elders and ancestors. This belief is rooted in the idea that elders possess wisdom and experience accumulated over a lifetime, and their guidance and wisdom should be honored and respected. Similarly, ancestors are venerated as guardians and protectors, with rituals and ceremonies dedicated to paying homage to their memory.
This belief instills a sense of reverence and humility towards those who came before us, as well as a recognition of our interconnectedness with past generations. It also underscores the importance of preserving cultural traditions and passing down knowledge from one generation to the next.
While this belief fosters a sense of continuity and cultural identity, it can also lead to challenges such as rigid adherence to traditional practices or resistance to change. Reflecting on this belief, I acknowledge its influence on my own values and behaviors, as well as the need to critically examine and adapt cultural traditions in a changing world.
Discussion with Classmate: Exploring Strangeness and Familiarity
Sharing my learning log with a classmate, I invite them to reflect on what aspects of my beliefs are strange or familiar to them. As we discuss, we both acknowledge our biases and prejudices, recognizing the influence of our respective cultural backgrounds on our perceptions. We critically reflect on how our own beliefs shape our worldview, and how understanding and respecting diverse perspectives can enrich our understanding of the world.
Through this dialogue, we deepen our appreciation for the complexity of human experience and the importance of interrogating our own assumptions and preconceptions.