Suvarnabhumi Model: Buddhist Suvarnabhumi Civilization and its Value Creation in Economic, Societal and Cultural Dimensions

Abstract

The research article consisted of the following objectives: 1) to investigate and develop a value creation model on Buddhist Integrated Suvarnabhumi model; and 2) to make recommendations for the development of Suvarnbhumi model which creates values in economic, social, and cultural dimensions. The study used a qualitative research approach to collect data through in-depth interviews with 20 persons from the target group and focus group discussions with ten persons from the target group. Purposive sampling was used to identify the target group, who were all Buddhists. The data were collected between March 1 and June 15, B.E. 2562. The collected data were analyzed by content analysis, examined by triangulation technique, and presented via descriptive statistics.

            From the study, it has been found that Buddhism has created values in the dimensions of economics, society, and culture which can be developed and integrated with Buddhānussati (contemplation on the virtues of the Buddha) according to the Suvarnabhumi model known as "Buddhist Suvarnabhumi Civilization”. The model consists of the 7 dimensions listed as follows: 1) a healthy life; 2) a safe society; 3) empowered thinking; 4) self-confidence;
5) a good mental health; 6) a peaceful mind; and 7) and a wisdom that fosters life balance. The strategy proposal is that the government sectors and associated organizations bring these value costs of these 7 dimensions in Buddhism to develop values in the dimensions of economics, society, and culture in order to achieve sustainability at the national and regional level.