Buddhist integration for Promoting Political Participation of the People in the Development of ban ton Subdistrict Municipality Phra Yuen District in Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

         This article aims to (1) examine the level of political participation of the people in the development of Ban Ton Subdistrict Municipality, Phra Yuen District, Khon Kaen Province, (2) analyze the relationship between the Seven Aparihāniyadhamma (Principles of Non-Decline) and political participation of the people in the development of Ban Ton Subdistrict Municipality, and (3) propose a Buddhist integration approach to enhance political participation in local development through the application of the Seven Aparihāniyadhamma. The study employed a mixed-methods research approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods. The quantitative research utilized a questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument, with a sample size of 377 residents of Ban Ton Subdistrict Municipality. Statistical analysis included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient for hypothesis testing. The qualitative research involved in-depth interviews with 12 key informants, with the data analyzed through descriptive content analysis.

         The research results were as follows:

         1. The level of political participation of the people in Ban Ton Subdistrict Municipality was found to be high overall.

         2. The relationship between the Seven Aparihāniyadhamma and political participation was found to be statistically significant at the 0.01 level, indicating that these Buddhist principles are positively associated with enhanced political participation in local governance and development.

         3. The Buddhist integration approach for promoting political participation emphasized several key aspects: frequent meetings to foster collective decision-making and unity; coordinated attendance and adjournment of meetings to reflect responsibility among local politicians; adherence to established regulations to ensure social order and good governance; respect for elders and local leaders as a demonstration of community values and traditions; recognition and promotion of women's rights to encourage female participation in leadership roles; preservation and promotion of local cultural traditions, ensuring that politicians uphold and safeguard local heritage; encouragement of virtuous individuals to actively participate in local governance and contribute to community development.