THE ROLE OF MONKS IN POLITICAL SOCIALIZATION OF PEOPLE BASED ON UDDHA DHAMMA IN PHICHAI SUBDISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION AT MUEANG DISTRICT IN LAMPANG PROVINCE

Abstract

The objectives of this research were: 1. To investigate political socialization in Phichai Subdistrict Administrative Organization; 2. To examine the relationship between the Sāraṇīyadhamma principles and political socialization in Phichai Subdistrict Administrative Organization; and 3 To explore the role of monks in political socialization of people based on buddha dhamma in phichai subdistrict administrative organization At mueang district in lampang province This study employed a mixed-methods research design. The quantitative approach involved a sample of 333 VHVs, with data collected via questionnaires and analyzed using percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson correlation coefficient. The qualitative approach involved in-depth interviews with 10 key informants, with data analyzed through descriptive content analysis.

The results of the research were as follows: 1. The overall level of political socialization in Phichai Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Mueang Lampang District, Lampang Province, was high. When considered by dimension, political information seeking recorded the highest mean score, followed by political participation, democratic attitudes, and political awareness, respectively. 2. The relationship between the Sāraṇīyadhamma principles and political socialization in Phichai Subdistrict Administrative Organization was found to be positive at a high level (R = 0.910), with statistical significance at the 0.01 level. Strong positive relationships were identified in Mettā-manokamma (loving-kindness in thought), Sīla-sāmaññatā (harmony in moral conduct), and Diṭṭhi-sāmaññatā (harmony in views), while moderate positive relationships were found in Mettā-kāyakamma (loving-kindness in action), Mettā-vacīkamma (loving-kindness in speech), and Sādhāraṇabhogitā (sharing of benefits). Therefore, the research hypothesis was supported. And 3. The study further found that Buddhist monks play a significant role in fostering political socialization among the people based on the six principles of Sāraṇīyadhamma. Through the cultivation of loving-kindness, moral discipline, mutual respect, the sharing of benefits, and harmonious conduct in thought, speech, and action, monks contribute to strengthening democratic values, promoting civic participation, encouraging political awareness, and fostering peaceful coexistence within the community.