A REINTERPRETATION OF THE SUFFICIENCY ECONOMY PHILOSOPHY IN RELIGIOUS AND PHILOSOPHICAL DIMENSIONS FROM A DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK TO A PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE

Abstract

This academic article proposes a reinterpretation of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) that extends beyond its conventional understanding as a mere economic model or rural development policy. It systematically analyzes and synthesizes the connections between SEP and its deeper religious and universal philosophical foundations. This documentary research reviews the royal speeches of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, concepts from key Thai scholars, and draws parallels with core Buddhist principles, Aristotelian virtue ethics, and critical theories of modern capitalism. The study reveals that SEP is not merely a development framework but a universal "philosophy of life." Its core principles strongly align with the "Middle Path" (Majjhimā Paṭipadā) in Buddhism, which navigates between the extremes of consumerism (kāmasukhallikānuyoga) and deprivation (attakilamathānuyoga). Furthermore, its principle of moderation reflects Aristotle's concept of "the Golden Mean," leading to "Eudaimonia" or human flourishing. Concurrently, SEP serves as a philosophical response to the "alienation" and "false needs" in modern society critiqued by thinkers such as E.F. Schumacher and Herbert Marcuse. This reinterpretation suggests that SEP holds the potential to be a viable alternative framework for sustainable development and human well-being on a global scale, challenging the dominant development paradigm focused solely on material growth. However, its application in Thai society faces challenges from its political instrumentalization and superficial interpretations, necessitating the promotion of a genuine philosophical understanding.