Important Themes in Southeast Asian Culture and History

Four cultural and historical themes that are still relevant today about Southeast Asia: 1) Religion and animism are still intertwined, in terms of both medical approaches and ritual offerings to spirits and ancestors. Indic influence is still expressed through political rituals.
	2) Descent in Southeast Asia is still largely bilateral (in some areas matrilineal), and women still hold a high economic position, although diluted by major world religions that bestow leadership on males somewhat.
3) Politics is intricately personal rather than policy-based. Alliances are built through economic rewards which is the hallmark of political leadership and attraction of followers.
	4) Debts (in Tagalog, "utang na loob") are still highly significant in social interactions. One creates allies by instilling feelings of gratitude and the need to repay the favor.