Topic suggestions for a baby thesis regarding Philippine culture and literature?

Question

Hi, I'm a 3rd year Literature major and for our Research methods subject we have to write a baby thesis probably in preparation for our real thesis in upcoming 4th year, I'm having difficulties in here because unlike the previous research papers we wrote last semesters, we have to apply our own argument and a theoretical framework to the topic. And they really have to be narrowed down to be more specific.

I've already listed a few of my ideas:
Street Photography in Philippines
Magic Realism/Surrealism in Philippine Literature
Social consciousness (pertaining to poverty and the masses) in Philippine Literature
Eroticism in Philippine Literature

Problem is I can't think of a good argument for discussion...And I'm not sure if there are enough resources...
Can you suggest other topics?
Thanks...

Answer 1

I have a degree in Southeast Asian Studies, so part of my studies included studying art, culture and literature of the Philippines.

One of the biggest topics that came up while I was studying the Philippines was the Frialocracy and its effects on Philippine art and literature. The Frailocracy (for those who don't know) was the corrupt rule of the Catholic church over poor indigenous Pilipinos. I see you've covered art and social conciousness, but I think you ought to look into religion as an influence on Philippine art and culture. Not just corruption in the church, either. Catholicism in general has been very influential on both art and culture.

One book you oughtta read is 'Pasyon y Revolucion.' It's been many years since I read it, but it's about the parallels between the Passion of Christ and the struggles of the poor against oppression and corruption.

Answer 2

you can do your thesis on any of these subjects-
why is the Philippines so corrupt?
why do all of the ruling business & political class have spanish ancestory & why is this seen as being so important?
why is the military just one step away from a coup (overthrowing the government) ?
is there any future for the majority of the poulation who aren't in the ruling/business class (does the phillipines REALLY offer ALL of it's citizens opportunity) ?
why is it such an unfair society to the majority of it's citizens?