AN ANALYSIS OF THE BASIC MORAL PRINCIPLES OF SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS IN THE KHLONG HAE FLOATING MARKET COMMUNITY, HAT YAI DISTRICT, SONGKHLA PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the concepts of social entrepreneurs in the Khlong Hae Floating Market community, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province 2) study the fundamental moral principles of social entrepreneurs as found in Buddhist scriptures and 3) analyze the fundamental moral principles of social entrepreneurs in the Khlong Hae Floating Market community, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. This qualitative research employed both documentary research and field study, under the philosophical and Buddhist methods of analysis, exegesis, and synthesis. 

The findings revealed that 1) Social entrepreneurs are those who operate businesses for profit however, such profits are returned to society in various forms such as job creation, increased productivity, expanded opportunities, and environmental conservation. These entrepreneurs integrate business objectives with social missions, prioritizing social benefits as the core mission of their organizations, thereby contributing to sustainable social entrepreneurship. 2) The fundamental moral principles of social entrepreneurs that align with Buddhist teachings include diligence, frugality, honesty, discipline, self-sacrifice, unity, and responsibility toward society and the environment. These correspond to the Four Virtues for Laypeople (Gharavasadhamma), which serve as ethical guidelines for both personal and social life Sacca (truthfulness) responsibility and honesty Dama (self-discipline) training and restraint Khanti (patience) endurance in the face of difficulties Caga (generosity) willingness to share with others 3) For social entrepreneurs, having deeply held moral values is essential. It reflects a strong commitment to ethical conduct and social responsibility. Their moral practice can be classified into four areas Personal morality: honesty, diligence, patience, and discipline Morality toward customers and partners: sincerity and product quality Morality toward society: contributing to the common good and creating opportunities Environmental morality: waste reduction, resource conservation, and pollution prevention