Max Scheler’s Sympathy (Pannakipagrikna) in the Context          of Online Education

Joeffrey Almazan

doi:10.53396/media.v6i2.649

Authors

Joeffrey Almazan Saint Louis University Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53396/media.v6i2.649

Keywords:

pannakipagrikna, online learning, phenomenology, value-centered, sympathy

Abstract

This study examines the relevance of Max Scheler’s concept of sympathy in the context of online education by situating it within the Ilocano cultural value of pannakipagrikna, which embodies empathy and emotional sensitivity. Employing a transcendental-phenomenological approach, the research integrates textual analysis of Scheler’s works with semi-structured interviews among Ilocano learners. The findings reveal that pannakipagrikna is expressed through four key themes: pannakaawat (understanding), naimpasnekan a panagdengngeg (active listening), panangtarabay (guidance), and pannakimaysa (emotional unity). These insights highlight the importance of affective and value-based engagement in addressing emotional detachment in online learning. The teacher emerges not merely as a transmitter of knowledge but as a moral and empathetic guide fostering students’ holistic development. The study concludes that contextualizing Scheler’s philosophical anthropology through Ilocano values enriches value-centered pedagogy and broadens the scope of phenomenology beyond Western frameworks.

Author Biography

Joeffrey Almazan, Saint Louis University Philippines

Born in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya on September 25, 1972. He finished his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at San Pablo Major Seminary, Baguio City. He completed his Master of Arts in Religious Studies at the CICM (Congregatio Immaculati Cordis Mariae) Maryhill School of Theology (MST), Quezon City. He finished his Doctor of Philosophy in Theology at the Ecclesiastical Faculty, University of Santo Tomas, Manila with specializations on Systematic Theology and Missiology. He is full-time Professor and served as Department Head of the Department of Religion, SLU, Baguio City (August 2015-July 2017). He is the past Graduate Program Coordinator for Liberal Arts, School of Advanced Studies, SLU, Baguio City from 2017-2021. He is a visiting Lecturer at CICM-Maryhill School of Theology (MST).

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