APPLICATION OF THE PRINCIPLES OF DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE IN PUBLIC POLITICS IN DON YO SUBDISTRICT, MUEANG NAKHON NAYOK DISTRICT NAKHON NAYOK PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) study the level of opinions on the application of Dhamma-democracy (Adhipateyya) principles in public politics; 2) compare these opinions classified by personal factors; and 3) propose guidelines for applying Dhamma-democracy principles in public politics in Don Yo Subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Nayok District, Nakhon Nayok Province. The study employed a mixed-methods research design. Quantitative data were collected from a sample of 370 citizens and analyzed using percentage, mean, standard deviation, t-test, and F-test. Qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 9 key informants.The research results revealed that:

          1) Opinion Levels: Overall opinions were at a high level ($\bar{x} = 3.97$). When categorized by aspect, the highest average was found in "adhering to righteousness," followed by "political participation" and "listening to public opinions," respectively.

          2) Comparison Results: No statistically significant differences (at the 0.05 level) were found in the opinions of people with different genders, ages, education levels, occupations, or incomes regarding the application of Dhamma-democracy.

          3) Application Guidelines: Key guidelines include (1) promoting unity and public participation in community activities; (2) raising awareness of democratic roles and duties based on integrity and transparency; and (3) utilizing Dhamma-democracy as a foundation for decision-making, prioritizing the collective interest over personal or group benefits.