Political Equanimity and the Emergence of a New Form of Political Awareness among Thai Youth
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Abstract
This article analyzes the dynamics of political phenomena through the integration of Buddhist principles, particularly focusing on the Four Immeasurables, especially Upekkhā (equanimity). Upekkhā promotes a calm and composed mind, enabling individuals to remain unaffected by environmental provocations and social turbulence. It can be seen as a mental training to attain balance and serenity in all situations or a form of political indifference that leads to a new consciousness among Thai youth. By studying the historical state of Upekkhā where people exhibited political apathy, refrained from expressing opinions, or did not participate in political activities, including voting and following political news, the article suggests that such attitudes eventually evolved into a different form of political awakening. However, political indifference has both positive and negative aspects. It can serve as self-defense against conflict, but it may also cause political stagnation due to the lack of public support or political expression for important societal issues. Particularly among youth, indifference might be viewed as avoidance of social responsibility; conversely, it could also signal fear of conflict driven by political influencers.
The article further highlights that the new form of political engagement among Thai youth is characterized by active use of social media for mobilization, emphasis on diverse social issues, and the pursuit of participatory and decentralizing approaches to politics. Understanding these reasons may help relevant agencies or interested parties utilize the insights from this analysis to promote more effective political participation.
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