NAME: Galvez, Jori Ysabel E.
COURSE and SECTION: AB Psychology 2-1
PRELIM EXAMINATION IN RIZAL'S LIFE, WORKS,
and WRITINGS
A. What Influenced Dr. Jose Rizal the Most?
Dr. Jose Rizal's life and works were shaped by a complex interplay of
influences, including:
Family
Rizal's family, particularly his mother Doña Teodora Alonzo , played
a pivotal role in his development. She instilled in him a love for
learning, a strong sense of morality, and a deep respect for educa-
tion. His father, Francisco Mercado, also contributed to his upbring-
ing, emphasizing hard work and integrity.
Environment
Rizal grew up during a tumultuous period in Philippine history, under
Spanish colonial rule. He witnessed firsthand the injustices and
abuses inflicted upon Filipinos, which fueled his passion for social re-
form and independence. His experiences shaped his critical thinking
and motivated him to advocate for change.
Education
Rizal's education, both formal and informal, played a crucial role in
shaping his intellectual development and political consciousness. He
was exposed to various philosophies and ideas, which broadened his
understanding of the world and inspired him to challenge the status
quo.
B. Comparing and Contrasting the Spanish Colonial Regime
and the Present Government
The Spanish colonial regime and the present Philippine government
differ significantly in their structures, ideologies, and governance:
Spanish Colonial Regime
- Authoritarian: Power was concentrated in the hands of Spanish offi-
cials, with limited participation from Filipinos.
- Exploitative: The Spanish colonial regime exploited Philippine re-
sources and labor for its own benefit, leading to widespread poverty
and inequality.
- Suppressive: The Spanish government actively suppressed Filipino
culture and identity, promoting Spanish language and religion.
Present Government
- Democratic: The present government is based on democratic prin-
ciples, with elected officials and a system of checks and balances.
- Independent: The Philippines is an independent nation, free from
colonial rule.
- Diverse: The present government reflects the diversity of Philip-
pine society, with representation from various ethnic groups and po-
litical ideologies.
C. The Educational System and Obscurantism
The educational system during the Spanish colonial era was charac-
terized by:
- Limited Access: Education was primarily reserved for the elite, with
limited access for Filipinos, particularly those from rural areas.
- Religious Focus: Education focused heavily on religious instruction,
promoting Catholic doctrine and suppressing critical thinking.
- Obscurantism: The Spanish government actively promoted obscu-
rantism , a policy of suppressing knowledge and critical inquiry. This
was done to maintain control and prevent the spread of ideas that
challenged their authority.
D. Liberalism and its Influence on European Governance
Liberalism is a political philosophy that emphasizes individual
rights, limited government, and free markets. It emerged in Europe
during the Enlightenment and had a profound impact on European
governance:
- Constitutionalism: Liberalism led to the development of constitu-
tionalism, which limited the power of monarchs and established a
system of checks and balances.
- Representative Government: Liberalism advocated for representa-
tive government, where citizens elect their leaders.
- Individual Rights: Liberalism championed individual rights, such as
freedom of speech, religion, and assembly.
E. Spain's Slow Adoption of Liberalism
Spain's slow adoption of liberalism and liberal democracy can be at-
tributed to:
- Traditionalism: Spain had a long history of monarchy and a strong
Catholic Church, which resisted change.
- Internal Conflicts: Spain was plagued by internal conflicts, such as
the Carlist Wars, which delayed political reforms.
- Colonial Influence: Spain's colonial empire, particularly in the
Americas, presented a significant challenge to the implementation
of liberal reforms.
F. Terms, Concepts, and Philosophies from LAS #1
- Nationalism: A strong feeling of pride and loyalty to one's nation.
- Patriotism: Love for one's country and a willingness to defend it.
- Reform: The process of improving or changing something.
- Revolution: A sudden and violent change in government or society.
- Liberalism: A political philosophy that emphasizes individual rights
and limited government.
- Conservatism: A political philosophy that emphasizes tradition and
stability.
- Socialism: A political and economic system that advocates for so-
cial ownership of the means of production.
- Communism: A political and economic system that advocates for a
classless society.
- Capitalism: An economic system based on private ownership and
free markets.
- Imperialism: The policy of extending a country's power and influ-
ence through colonization.
G. Rizal Law RA 1425
The Rizal Law (RA 1425) mandates the study of the life, works, and
writings of Dr. Jose Rizal in all educational institutions in the Philip-
pines. It aims to:
- Promote Nationalism: To instill in Filipino youth a sense of patrio-
tism and national identity.
- Foster Critical Thinking: To encourage students to think critically
about Philippine history and society.
- Inspire Social Change: To inspire students to become active citi-
zens and contribute to the betterment of society.
Rededicating oneself to the ideals of freedom and nationalism is es-
sential for a nation's progress and prosperity. It means:
- Upholding Democracy: Protecting democratic institutions and prin-
ciples.
- Promoting Equality: Working towards a society where all individu-
als have equal opportunities.
- Fighting Injustice: Standing up against corruption and oppression.
- Preserving Heritage: Honoring and celebrating Philippine culture
and history.
