Sociological Crusade

"No description can even begin to lead to a valid explanation if it does not encompass the whole world." 

- Ferdinand Braudel

Last July 18, 2012 - I was invited to speak before sociology major students and professors at my beloved Alma Mater, University of Santo Tomas.

The theme was: "Socialize! Shaping the Minds of Future Nation Builders: General Assembly and Career Orientation 2012."

I was asked to share my job experience and thus, how being a Sociology graduate gives me the supplies to meet the former's daily demands.

I intended to utilize both Tagalog and English language. (Tagalog to make it more understandable and emphatic) [pag sosyologo, kailangan maka-masa] and English for the benefit of foreign students in attendance.)

Okay so to stipulate, the talk I presided revolve on this topic,

Sociology at work: How do I practice it on my duties/responsibilities as researcher for GMA News?

Shared major tidbits:

Uphold Truth and Objectivity:

The first and foremost mandate, to enlive the principles of impartiality and non-partisanship. The truth has to come out. Even though media is socially-constructed and therefore is subjected to flaws, in the most possible way - the most objective character shall and must, reign.

Verify Facts and Information

Being a social analyst, it’s a no-no to jump right to conclusion without intensive research of the issue/case study that is being looking into. By standard, I’m bound to examine, weigh things on a empirical and systematic, organized manner.

Balance researching and write-up reporting

Different angles and perspectives must be look into. In this happening, sociological imagination takes place. You have to consider how people from different walks in life perceives news that are popping up the on the radio, television and/or social media. If there are advantages, so as there are disadvantages. You just have to know how to draw the line equally.

(Last but definitely not the least) Dealing with people

To simplify and I quote what the incumbent 4th year students uttered, "Makisama, Makiramdam. Makibagay". Moreover during field works, by all means, be humble and kind. People in the community will scold you if you're cranky and arrogant. By sociological nature, be approachable. Mingle with every person in a modest way would be the best way. They will appreciate that.

So there, those were the general vital principles I tackled upon encountering, each and every day I commit to work. As I carry the job and being a graduate of sociology, I'm compelled to submit to all these tenets.

My takeaway:

"Kung ano mang karunungan, kamalayan at kamulatan ang tinataglay ko ngayon, ito'y utang ko sa pagtahak ko sa landas ng pag-aaral ng sosyolohiya.

Ito ang nagsilbi sa akin bilang salamin sa totoong mukha ng lipunang aking ginagalawan." :)

Photo op: Thank you USTSS Council 2012-13 for the invitation