Application of Sãrãniyadhamma Principles to Promote Democratic Citizenship Among People in Chaiwan District, Udon Thani Province

Abstract

             The purposes of this research were: 1) to examine the level of democratic citizenship among the people in Chaiwan District, Udon Thani Province, 2) analyze the relationship between the principles of Sārāṇīyadhamma and democratic citizenship, and 3) propose the application of Sārāṇīyadhamma to enhance democratic citizenship in the local community. This study employs a mixed-methods research approach. The quantitative research component utilizes a five-point Likert scale questionnaire as the data collection instrument, with a reliability coefficient of 0.964. The sample consists of 395 residents of Chaiwan District, selected through accidental sampling. Statistical analyses include frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis, and qualitative research. The qualitative research component involves in-depth interviews with 12 key informants, selected through purposive sampling, and data analysis is conducted using descriptive content analysis techniques.
             The research results were as follows:
             1. The overall level of democratic citizenship in Chaiwan District was high, with a mean score of 3.78.
             2. Relationship between Sārāṇīyadhamma and democratic citizenship: The findings indicate a statistically significant positive correlation between Sārāṇīyadhamma and democratic citizenship (r = 0.42, p < 0.01).
             3. Application of Sārāṇīyadhamma to promote democratic citizenship: The study proposes the following applications of Sārāṇīyadhamma to foster democratic values: (1) Metta-kāyakamma (Loving-kindness in physical actions): Encouraging politeness, mutual assistance, goodwill, and respect for civil liberties; (2) Metta-vācīkamma (Loving-kindness in speech): Promoting polite communication, conveying beneficial information, using reasoned discourse, and acting as a bridge for social understanding; (3) Metta-manokamma (Loving-kindness in thoughts): Cultivating good intentions, thinking constructively, expressing kindness, and accepting diverse opinions; (4) Sādhāraṇabhogī (Sharing of rightful resources): Encouraging fair distribution of wealth, reducing inequality, and fostering community sharing; (5) Sīlasāmaññatā (Common morality and ethical conduct): Upholding laws and ethical standards to ensure justice and social order; (6) Diṭṭhisāmaññatā (Harmonious views and shared understanding): Promoting consensus through reason, mutual understanding, and acceptance of differing perspectives.