1. PHILO January 15, 2022
Philosophy Worksheet 1:
AY 2020-2021
Submitted to:
(name)
Submitted by:
Anduiza, Jose Achillies E.
11 ABM-2
Are you familiar with the saying “just saying” or “this is just my opinion, please respect”
which is prominent on social media among Filipinos? The digital divide is getting bigger
in the country as misinformation is spreading. The digital divide is the gap between access
to credible information and technology. Many believe that we are currently living in a post-
truth world where facts will not matter anymore. People will consider stories as true events
that happened rather than questioning their credibility. Any supplementing data, stories,
facts, or opinions will be adapted and the ones that are not will be ignored. Everyone is
entitled to their opinion as Filipinos we have the bill of rights under section IV that states
“No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech or expression” this protects us
from giving our opinion. However, for me, there is a limitation to our freedom of speech.
Our opinion should follow basic etiquette to avoid hurting others. Do not be confused if
you are hurt by the truth that is still the truth. During the age of misinformation, it is
important to check the credibility of our opinion to avoid confusion and worse, life-
threatening information. Take for example medical advice from famous tiktokers. Those
self-proclaimed medical experts will suggest health hacks for Filipinos without a scientific
basis. Because of their influence, people will follow their advice. This advice from non-
experts will only threaten the lives of those who are following that advice because of
insufficient clinical studies. It is not okay to give opinions about something when life is at
stake and if you are not an expert. Famous people especially on tiktok should express their
freedom of speech to help people rather than spread misinformation. Another issue is the
opinion about vaccines. People will argue that vaccines have microchips inserted into them
so the manufacturer of those vaccines will collect data from people that took the jabs and
people will say that “this is my opinion respect only” how can we tolerate people that are
spreading this misinformation. In this era where Filipinos have a higher rate of
vulnerability because they think that when something is on the internet it is the truth. People
argue that it is their freedom of speech to give any opinion and they are safeguarded by the
bill. Rights. Expressing one’s freedom ignorantly and unethically will cause suffering to
others. To avoid this we must follow the benedictine hallmark of “humility” that guides us
to be a better person and avoid negative emotions.
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