Abstract
A fascinating part of the human experience is the number of traditions societies adhere to. This is particularly true in small and mid-sized towns. Traditions may die in cities because of all the outside influences in these places. However, traditions and cultural influences remain strong in areas with little media influence and few visitors. This is particularly true in the Philippines. Here, familial and cultural influences can control who a person courts and who marries whom. This research details how these influences affect courtship and marriage in Maramag, Bukidnon, a town of about 108,000 people, located in the center of Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippine archipelago. In many Western societies, courtship is straightforward. Two people meet, date, and if all goes well, they marry. Although it happens from time to time, families are not too involved when adults date and marry. The Philippines is different in that parents (especially mothers), money, and social status, are significant factors as to whether a courtship and/or marriage takes place. This is certainly true of Maramag, a place whose culture and societal influences, mirror other small and mid-sized towns in this country. In many instances, love is just part of the reason to marry but may not be enough for parents to approve a possible wedding. This investigation delves into the factors, processes, and influences a couple may have to navigate to marry.
Presenters
Julian MadisonAssociate Professor, History, Southern Connecticut State University, Connecticut, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Civic, Political, and Community Studies
KEYWORDS
Love, Courtship, Marriage, Social, Cultural, Economic
