Buddhadhamma Integration for The Promotion of People Participation for Community Development of Mueang Mo Sub-District, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province

Abstract

This article aims to study (1) the level of political participation of the people in the community development of Mueang Mo Subdistrict, (2) the relationship between the principles of Aparihaniyadhamma and the political participation of the people in the community development of Mueang Mo Subdistrict, and (3) the guidelines for integrating the principles of Aparihaniyadhamma to promote political participation of the people in the community development of Mueang Mo Subdistrict, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province. This study employs a mixed-methods research approach, involving a sample size of 379 participants and in-depth interviews with 10 key informants. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficients, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis methods. The findings reveal that (1) the level of political participation of the people in community development according to the seven principles of Aparihaniyadhamma is overall at a moderate level; (2) the relationship between the seven principles of Aparihaniyadhamma and political participation shows a moderate positive correlation, statistically significant; (3) the guidelines for integrating the seven principles of Aparihaniyadhamma to promote political participation are as follows: 1) community members should collaboratively establish practices to promote unity; 2) effective meetings should be organized with harmony and clear communication, including the adoption of technology in remote areas; 3) adherence to existing regulations should be maintained while being open to new ideas; 4) respect for elders with experience and virtue should be upheld; 5) equal rights and roles of women should be supported; 6) cultural traditions should be preserved as the center of development; 7) virtuous individuals in the community should be recognized as inspiration for continuous social development.