A Comparative Study of the Inner Development Goals and the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy

Abstract

          This research article aims to compare the concepts, similarities, and differences between the Inner Development Goals (IDGs) and the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy, focusing on both philosophical perspectives and practical applications. The study employs a qualitative research methodology, utilizing philosophical analysis, content interpretation, and comparative conceptual synthesis. Data sources include original canonical texts and academic works from both global and Thai contexts. The findings reveal that both the IDGs and the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy share a common goal of promoting human development from within, emphasizing inner growth, self-understanding, balanced interpersonal relationships, and the capacity to live ethically and resiliently amidst a changing world. Although the two frameworks differ in their presentation styles and cultural contexts, they share a unified intention to lay the foundations of sustainability on the basis of virtue and inner resilience. The IDGs offer a systematic approach that can be broadly applied in organizational and leadership development, whereas the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy deeply conveys ethical values through localized contexts. A significant contribution of this study is the development of the H.E.A.R.T. Model, an integrated conceptual framework that combines the IDGs with the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy. The model comprises H=Holistic Human Development, E=Ethical Foundations, A=Alignment of Inner and Outer Growth, R=Rooting in Local Wisdom, and T=Transformation through Application. This model can be effectively applied to enhance human quality at the individual, organizational, and policy levels toward sustainable development.