Temples and Communities The Cultural Power in Shaping Thai Society

Abstract

This academic article aims to examine the roles of temples and communities as key mechanisms in driving Thai society through the power of culture. It focuses on analyzing the structural relationship between temples, communities, and cultural dynamics within Thai society. The findings reveal that temples play a pivotal role as religious and cultural centers in communities. They serve as spaces for cultivating morality and ethics, while also acting as hubs for preserving local customs and traditions. Simultaneously, Thai communities exhibit strong social networks characterized by mutual support and the formation of close-knit social relationships, with temples at the heart of communal activities and spiritual life. Additionally, the study finds that the "power of culture" has significant influence on the development of society in multiple dimensions. These include fostering social cohesion, generosity, and the transmission of shared identities within the community. The integration between temples and communities is identified as a key driver that empowers cultural forces to sustain the structure and values of Thai society. This is especially crucial in the modern era, where Thai society is facing rapid changes and challenges from globalization. This article proposes the model "Temple-Community: Cultural Power for a Sustainable Thai Society," which reflects an integrated mechanism for building a resilient and stable society. The study recommends that relevant agencies should promote the roles of temples and communities as essential mechanisms for the sustainable development of Thai society. This can be achieved by supporting cultural and religious activities at the local level and encouraging community participation to foster a united and sustainable society.