MORAL CITY : THE PROCESS OF PROMOTING AND DRIVING THE DEVELOPMENT OF SPATIAL MORALITY

Abstract

The research titled Moral City : THE PROCESS OF PROMOTING AND DRIVING THE DEVELOPMENT OF SPATIAL MORALITY is a qualitative research that aims (1) To examine the processes and models for promoting and driving moral development at the city level, (2) To strengthen the capacity of mechanisms supporting area-based morality promotion, and (3) To create knowledge and a “Moral City Model” that can be practically applied and expanded across provinces nationwide. A mixed methods research design was employed, consisting of documentary research, qualitative research, and action research.

The documentary research focused on studying policies, strategies, and successful cases of “Moral Provinces” from key agencies such as the Ministry of Interior, the Department of Religious Affairs, the Moral Promotion Center, and the Office of the Ombudsman. Qualitative research applied a phenomenological approach, using literature reviews, academic articles, and in-depth interviews with at least five key informants, including representatives of the National Moral Promotion Committee, related agencies, experts, and academics. The action research emphasized testing and applying the central knowledge set in Kamphaeng Phet Province through training programs for “Participatory Area-Based Morality Promoters,” supporting action plans, monitoring outcomes, and establishing the “Moral Network Center” as a central mechanism for sustainability. The study covered three levels: national policy level (representatives of the National Moral Promotion Committee, Department of Religious Affairs, Moral Promotion Center, and Ministry of Interior), provincial level (Ratchaburi and Buriram), and key operational areas (Kamphaeng Phet), using purposive sampling for both policymakers and practitioners. The findings revealed that the successful promotion of moral development requires integration between national policy frameworks and active participation of local social networks. The “Moral City Model” developed from this study serves as a practical guideline for implementing moral development initiatives, enhancing the capacity of social mechanisms, and ensuring sustainable expansion of Moral Cities across Thailand.