Application Model for Buddhist Economics in Community of Thailand

Abstract

The purposes of this research were to study and to propose guidelines and forms application of Buddhist economics in the model community in Thai society. Qualitative research was used for research design. Research results revealed that 1) Thai society has Buddhism as the foundation. Buddhism concepts were applied for interpreting and giving an explanation together with economic behavior. It is a mechanism in conjunction with the community way of life as shown in the sufficiency economy in community such as saving property (Sajjasasomsub Group) that was the sufficiency way in the community. There are monks who are leading the concept to the public such as Buddhadasa bhikkhu, P.A. Payutto, Santiasok Group, etc. 2) Application of Buddhist Economics in the model community in Thai society of Ban Phai Nge community, and Wang Nam Yen Community, Suphan Buri Province (Northern region), Ban Mae Kwak Community, Village No. 1, Ban On Subdistrict, Lampang Province. Application of Buddhist economics management within the community was the concept of “Fit, Sufficiency,  Balance, Wisdom, Unity, and Happiness" until receiving the award "Yu Dee Mee Suk-Live for Happiness" at the provincial level that received the royal award from HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Emphasizing on self-reliance (Atta-nat) and promoting the production of products were used within the community, and service delivery (Fellowship) included groups to supplement their occupations after farming. The model was applied with the principles of Buddhism through the way of religious beliefs and the way of life. Monks were the community leaders and led people to do the activities with the temple that was important support and management combined with the culture in the community as well.