Journal of Sinsothon

Freedom of thought among parents in Thailand's political expression during the Society 5.0 era

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to investigate the freedom of thought among political administrators in Thailand with regard to their political expression within the evolving context of Society 5.0. It analyzes the implications of technological and societal transformations on patterns of political communication, while also examining the opportunities and challenges that arise therein The study addresses several key dimensions, including: the definition and significance of freedom of thought in the Thai political context; the impact of Society 5.0 on modes of political expression; the legal and ethical frameworks governing such expressions; case studies illustrating political expression through digital media; and strategic approaches to fostering constructive intellectual freedom Findings from the study underscore the importance of achieving a nuanced balance between freedom and responsibility. Furthermore, the research highlights the imperative for political administrators to develop digital communication competencies as a means to facilitate meaningful political expression that contributes to democratic development in the era of Society 5.0.

Consistency and Conflict between Secular Law and Buddhist Monastic DisciplineImplications for the Governance of the Thai Sangha

Aphisit Kanphakdi, Aphichit Mueaithaisong, Wicharayan Wisuttiyano (moyaem) — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article analyzes the complex relationship between Thailand's secular law and the Dhamma-Vinaya in governing the Thai Sangha, focusing on commonalities, conflicts, and resulting impacts. In the past, the relationship between the state and the Sangha maintained balance through community-based social control. However, the promulgation of the Sangha Act by the government transformed the governance model into a centralized bureaucratic system, which brought advantages in creating stability and standardization but also generated tensions and significant gaps. The analysis delves into issues where secular law attempts to fill gaps not addressed by the Dhamma-Vinaya, such as centralized administrative structures, while simultaneously creating conflicts when secular principles contradict the principles of Dhamma-Vinaya, particularly in criminal cases involving monks. The absence of clearly defined secular penalties for certain disciplinary offenses also affects faith and Sangha administration, pointing to a situation of legal pluralism where monks are subject to religious rules, state law, and Sangha law, leading to problems of overlap and administrative efficiency. Therefore, reform approaches are proposed for consideration regarding the structure and concepts in Sangha governance to achieve balance and contemporary relevance, ensuring the sustainability of Buddhism in Thailand.

Patterns of Direct and Indirect Political Participation of Thai Citizens in the Online Environment and the Challenges of the Digital Era

Warangkana Phosri, Aphichit Mueaithaisong, Wicharayan Wisuttiyano (moyaem) — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to study forms of direct and indirect political participation of Thai citizens in the online world and the challenges in the digital age where information technology plays a profound role in the lives of Thai people. Political participation has transformed from traditional forms to new dimensions, both direct and indirect, through online channels. Direct participation, such as signing petitions, participating in protest activities through social media, and engaging in political discussions, shows an increasing trend. Meanwhile, indirect participation, such as disseminating information, posing critical questions, and using social media power to pressure the government, also plays a significant role. However, major challenges include fake news, online conflicts, state control, and inequality in access to technology, all of which are obstacles to constructive and sustainable participation. Promoting digital literacy and creating open online public spaces are therefore important approaches to developing contemporary Thai Democracy.

Legal Status of Buddhist Monks: The Complexity of Secular Law Enforcement and Its Impact on Sangha Governance

Jirayut yemson, Aphichit Mueaithaisong, Wicharayan Wisuttiyano (moyaem) — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to analyze the legal status of Buddhist monks in Thailand, reflecting the complexity of being subject to both the Vinaya (monastic discipline) and secular law. Although monks have renounced lay life, they still retain legal rights and obligations, such as property ownership rights, rights to statutory inheritance, and fundamental rights as ordinary persons. However, the restrictions of monastic status and the Vinaya create challenges in exercising these rights. The state's enforcement of law through the Sangha Act helps establish a clear regulatory framework, but at the same time may impact the autonomy of the Sangha. This demonstrates that the balance between secular law and the Vinaya is crucial to preserving the dignity of monastic status, the credibility of the monastic institution, and the stability of Buddhism in Thai society.

Factors Influencing the Political Decision Making of the Thai Government in the Thai and Cambodian Border War: An Analysis Through Leadership Principles and Ethics

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to analyze the factors influencing the political decision-making of the Thai government in the case of the Thai-Cambodian border conflict through the framework of Buddhist principles and leadership ethics. The findings demonstrate that political decisions in conflict situations do not depend solely on strategic factors or international law, but also reflect personal ethics, values, and governance principles upheld by leaders. Particularly in the case of the Preah Vihear Temple dispute, although the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favor of Cambodia in 1962, the issue of the surrounding border demarcation remains contentious. Resolution should therefore rely on physical evidence alongside humanitarian principles and diplomacy. The application of Buddhist principles, such as the Four Brahmaviharas and Saraniya Dhamma, can guide decision-making to consider the balance between state interests, security, and human dignity. This illustrates that leadership ethics play a crucial role in shaping security policy direction and its impact on ordinary citizens. Decisions grounded in Buddhist principles and responsibility can lead to constructive and sustainable conflict resolution.

Social Media Learning and Mindfulness: Creating Creative Political Engagement among Undergraduate Students

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to examine social media, learning, and right mindfulness as critical factors contributing to constructive political participation among undergraduate students within the context of a rapidly evolving digital world, considering both the opportunities and challenges of social media use. the study findings demonstrate that digital media has become a vital learning and communication space for the younger generation, facilitating increased access to information, network building, and diverse forms of political expression. Concurrently, it may give rise to issues of inequality, distorted information, and psychosocial risks. the integration of Buddhist principles, particularly right mindfulness (samma-sati), enables users to develop conscious awareness in consuming news and creating online media, leading to balanced and constructive technology use. Consequently, undergraduate students can develop themselves academically, socially, and ethically, while advancing toward becoming responsible digital citizens who play an active role in fostering sustainable democracy.

Democratic Values and Citizen Participation: Pathways to Political Empowerment

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to analyze the relationship between democracy and civic awakening in the Thai social context, emphasizing citizens' rights, voice, and political participation. The study reveals that although Thailand has transitioned to a democratic regime for nearly 90 years and has had 20 constitutions, democratic development continues to face challenges from coups d'état, corruption, and lack of genuine citizen participation. This has resulted in citizens losing faith and perceiving politics as solely the domain of the elite. Citizens' rights constitute the heart of democracy and are founded upon key principles including freedom, equality, majority rule, rationality, and fraternity. Meanwhile, the voice of citizens represents the driving force of politics and reflects the will of those who hold sovereign power. However, past electoral systems had limitations that did not truly reflect the principle of majority rule, necessitating reforms for greater fairness. Political participation is considered the essence of democracy, which is not limited merely to exercising voting rights but also encompasses engagement in public activities and determining the nation's direction. Key factors promoting civic awakening and participation include families that cultivate political consciousness, educational institutions that provide knowledge, occupational and religious groups, as well as government agencies that implement continuous policies.

Anti Corruption Laws and the Four Brahmaviharas: Impact on Transparency in Thai Public Administration

Porntita Nathum, Aphichit Mueaithaisong, Wicharayan Wisuttiyano (moyaem) — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to examine the connection between anti-corruption laws and the Four Brahmaviharas (Four Sublime States) and analyze their impact on transparency in Thai public administration. The study finds that corruption is a significant problem that undermines public confidence in the civil service system. Although the Thai government has enacted laws to prevent and suppress corruption, law enforcement alone is insufficient to create a culture of honesty and integrity. The integration of the Four Brahmaviharas comprising Metta (loving-kindness), Karuna (compassion), Mudita (sympathetic joy), and Upekkha (equanimity) with anti-corruption laws helps establish a strong ethical foundation. Metta and Karuna reduce the motivation to seek personal gain, Mudita creates a supportive work atmosphere, and Upekkha ensures neutral and transparent decision-making. Organizational culture plays a crucial role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of personnel. Transparency is a fundamental principle that helps build trust and prevent corruption, yet several obstacles remain, including weak law enforcement, patronage culture, limited citizen participation, and challenges from fake news. The creation of holistic good governance that integrates law, religious principles, technology, and citizen participation will ensure that the civil service system is not only transparent but also resilient against corruption in the long term. The combination of the structural power of law with the ethical foundation of the Four Brahmaviharas will create a more sustainable and effective corruption prevention system.

Buddhist Principles within the Legal Framework for the Propagation of Buddhism under the Law

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to analyze religious principles within the legal framework concerning the propagation of Buddhism by examining the relationship between the Sangha Act as domestic law and international human rights law, particularly freedom of religion. The article emphasizes the role of Buddhism as a social and spiritual mechanism that must operate within a balanced legal framework consistent with Dharma principles. The findings reveal that the Sangha Act functions to establish the structure and administrative regulations within the Sangha to maintain the Dhamma-Vinaya, while international law aims to protect the rights and freedoms to profess and practice religion without discrimination. Both levels of law thus share common ground in promoting the propagation of Buddhism in a manner that is free and peaceful, based on human dignity and equality. The propagation of Buddhism in the era of globalization should rely on the integration of Dharma principles, the Sangha Act, and human rights law to enhance Thailand's religious soft power on the international stage and maintain religious stability in accordance with multicultural societies in the future.

The Practice of Brahmacariya According to Buddhist Dharma Principles for Ethical Development in Thai Society

Pusaon Saetang, Manit Akkhachat — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article explores the meaning, concepts, and principles of celibacy according to Buddhism and proposes approaches to its application to promote ethics in contemporary Thai society. The study reveals that celibacy in the Tipitaka is a noble way of life for those seeking liberation from all defilements. It is a life aimed at purity of body, speech, and mind, guided by morality, concentration, and wisdom. Celibacy is not merely the abstention from sexual intercourse or ordination; it is a way of life based on the Noble Eightfold Path, a path of practical practice leading to purity and liberation. Buddhist ethics encompasses several key principles, including gratitude, discipline, unity, compassion, and the Five Precepts, which serve as the foundations for peaceful coexistence in society. Ethics can be developed through Buddhist principles, such as the Four Right Efforts, the Two World-Protecting Principles of Shame and Ottappa, the Seven Sappurisadhammas, the Four Lay Dhammas, and the Three Suttas, all of which are important tools for instilling morality and ethics in Thai society. It helps individuals develop themselves physically, verbally and mentally, and promotes a peaceful and sustainable society, and reduces corruption, which is an ethical crisis in Thai society today.