Conceptions of Democracy in Nirat Literature, 1932-2024

Abstract

This research aims to study the views on democracy that appear in Nirat literature from 1932-2024, totaling 303 stories. The research results are divided into two periods, Nirat literature from 1932-1980 and that from 1981-1924. The first period revealed that there were views that agreed with the change of government to a democratic regime because it showed that Thailand had progressed. However, there were also views that the change of government caused various sufferings in society. The democratic regime did not give Thai people rights, freedom and equality, so there were views that supported the revolution to a communist regime. As for the views on the principles of rights, freedom and equality, it was found that people still did not have the right and freedom to express themselves politically. Children and women were still restricted in their rights and freedoms. People were still not equal. As for Nirat literature from 1981-2024, it was found that democracy was a good regime, but it was not true democracy. It was found that all people had equal rights and freedom, freedom to express their opinions and sexual freedom. However, Thai traditions and culture were still the reasons why women were limited in their rights and freedoms and had lower status and roles than men. Children had to respect those who were older. In addition, the view that corruption has existed in Thai society is a major problem that has prevented Thailand from having a truly democratic regime where people have true rights, freedom and equality.