THE INTEGRATED BUDDHA'S VALUES OF PEOPLE IN ANTI-CORRUPTION AND POLITICAL MISCONDUCT IN PONG SAEN THONG SUBDISTRICT, MUEANG DISTRICT, LAMPANG PROVINCE

Abstract

Objectives of this research article were: 1. to analyze the level of value cultivation among citizens in opposing political corruption and misconduct, 2. to compare the levels of value cultivation among citizens in opposing political corruption and misconduct based on demographic factors, and 3. to propose a Buddhadhamma integration for cultivating values among citizens in opposing political corruption and misconduct, conducted by the mixed methods. The quantitative research, data were collected from samples consisted of 390 eligible voters residing in Pong Saen Thong Sub-District, Mueang District, Lampang Province. The qualitative data were obtained from 10 key informants, including monks or individuals with relevant knowledge and experience. Research instruments included questionnaires and structured in-depth-interview scripts. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics, including independent t-test and One-way ANOVA. Qualitative data were analyzed using content descriptive interpretation.

Research findings revealed that: 1. By overall, level of value cultivation among the people in opposing political corruption and misconduct was high. Specifically, the aspects of instilling awareness and promoting vigilance, building networks, and public communication were at a high level, while the aspect of corruption awareness was at a moderate level. 2. The level of value cultivation in opposing political corruption and misconduct did not differ significantly by gender or age, but it did vary significantly by education level, occupation, and income, with statistically significant level at the 0.05. 3. The Buddhist principles of Hiri, sense of shame towards wrongdoing and Ottappa, fear of consequences of wrongdoing were found to be appropriate for integration into efforts to cultivate public values in opposing political corruption and misconduct.