POLITICAL KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING IN THE DEMOCRATIC SYSTEM OF THE PEOPLE THROUGH THE OPERATIONS OF THE THONG CHAI SUBDISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION, MUEANG DISTRICT, PHETCHABURI PROVINCE

Abstract

This mixed-methods research aimed to 1) study the level of people's political knowledge and understanding in a democratic system; 2) compare people's political knowledge and understanding in a democratic system classified by personal factors; and 3) present people's political knowledge and understanding in a democratic system by applying the wisdom principle. The sample consisted of 379 people in the Thongchai Subdistrict Administrative Organization aged 18 years and over and 10 key informants. Data were analyzed using percentages, means, standard deviations, F-tests using one-way ANOVA, and descriptive content analysis. The results showed that 1) the overall level of people's political knowledge and understanding in a democratic system was at a high level. 2) The results of the comparison of people's political knowledge and understanding in a democratic system classified by personal factors revealed that differences in age, education level, and occupation resulted in significantly different opinions of people towards their overall political knowledge and understanding in a democratic system at the 0.05 level. 3) People in a democratic system should have all three types of wisdom: sutamaya-panna, which is knowledge and understanding of democracy through listening, reading, and mindful memorization. To analyze and make appropriate political decisions, Chintamayapanna is analytical thinking and awareness in sustainable community and social development, and Bhavanamayapanna is continuous participation in community activities to practice, build unity, and promote the role of quality citizens.