Promotion of citizenship in a democratic regime according to Buddhist principles for the people of Kanjana Subdistrict, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province

Abstract

The research article aims to (1) investigate the level of citizenship in the democratic regime among the residents of Kanjana Subdistrict, (2) examine the relationship between the Seven Principles of a Good Person (Sappurisadhamma) and democratic citizenship in Kanjana Subdistrict, and (3) propose ways to promote democratic citizenship according to Buddhist principles among the people of Kanjana Subdistrict, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province. This study employs a mixed-methods research approach, which includes (1) quantitative research involving the distribution of questionnaires to a sample of 363 individuals, utilizing Yamane's formula and stratified random sampling, with data analyzed through descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficients, and (2) qualitative research through in-depth interviews with nine key informants, where interviews were transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed. The findings indicate that 1) the overall level of democratic citizenship according to the Seven Principles of a Good Person is high, with all six dimensions of citizenship also rated as high, 2) there is a moderate positive correlation between the Seven Principles of a Good Person and democratic citizenship that is statistically significant, and 3) promoting citizenship based on these principles reveals that (1) Dhammānyutta (knowledge of the Dhamma) should emphasize critical thinking and public participation, (2) Attānyutta (knowledge of purpose) should focus on helping citizens understand their rights and responsibilities, (3) Attānyutta (self-awareness) should promote awareness of rights within a democratic framework, (4) Mātānyutta (sense of moderation) should encourage the appropriate use of freedoms and resources, (5) Kālānyutta (sense of timing) should enhance knowledge about citizens' rights and responsibilities to stimulate political participation, (6) Pariṣaṇṇā (understanding of society) should emphasize public involvement, and (7) Pukkhānyutta (knowledge of individuals) should focus on building community networks and selecting good leaders.