The prevailing view of the state of Philippine society is bleak: the Philippines, it is alleged, is suffering from unsatisfactory economic growth, mounting corruption, increasing lawlessness, and declining morale. To arrive at an accurate assessment of current problems and future prospects, the authors have undertaken a broad, quantitative analysis of politics, economics, crime, and dissidence within the country. Addressing the problems systematically, measuring alternative explanations and interpretations, their analysis is directed to a clearer articulation of information and policy decisions within the Philippines, and a more realistic view of the country. For the benefit of other social scientists or countries who wish to make a similar study, the appendices list in detail the data used by the authors.

Originally published in 1971.

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