The concept of ‘Pluralism’ and ‘Public Choice Theory’
Blog #2: Pluralism and Public Choice Theory
The Philippines seems to be a perfect home for a pluralistic society. Since its diversity is highly recognized by multiple ethnicities, cultures, and religions. And because of this diversity, our government is expected to consider these various interest groups every decision they will pursue. However, does the government really decide for the public good? Or is it just for their own satisfaction?
The concept of pluralism, particularly elite pluralism, is distinctly evident in the current situational crisis we are facing. Ever since the government imposes different policies to halt the rise of the COVID cases, it appears some policies are being anti-poor. For instance, the mandatory use of face shields outdoors. Does this policy is actually for the prevention of the spreading of the virus or just for monetary benefits? Well, in my observation, the government still implements this act because certain groups like manufacturers or businesses who sell face shields greatly benefit from it and also, the government itself. This only explicitly exhibits how the elite groups gained their dominance over the marginalized groups. And I am outrageous to see how they overly protect their self pursuits but not the public interest.
This pandemic certainly exposed some of the grassroots problems that were overlooked by the past administrations for the past years. And it is seen how these various groups played a big role in the decision-making process throughout. The government’s plan to combat the virus failed not only because of poor implementation but rather how they prioritize interest groups that are already gaining an enormous convenience from it. They utilized the vulnerability of the current situation for their own sake.
With that being said, this lesson about pluralism is an eye-opener for us. We must recognize not only recognize the groups who have the power but also the groups that come from the marginalized. Because at the end of the day, they are the ones who are continuously abused by these high profiled individuals in our society and we must be their voice to take a stand.
References:
Mastura, M. (1994). Legal Pluralism in the Philippines. Vol. 28, No. 3, Law and society in Southeast Asia, pp.461-476. Retrieved from https://www.jstor.org/stable/3054065
Mccullough, M. (2021). [OPINION] Face shields block the way to PH retail recovery. Rappler. Retrieved from https://www.rappler.com/voices/imho/opinion-face-shields-block-way-philippine-retail-recovery
Parrocha, A. (2021). Face shields to help prevent ‘disaster for our nation’: Duterte. Retrieved from https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144480