BUDDHIST GOVERNANCE ACCORDING TO THE PRINCIPLES OF GOOD GOVERNANCE OF THE SANGHA IN DON SAK DISTRICT, SURAT THANI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1. study the level of opinions held by Buddhist monks, 2. compare those opinions based on personal factors, and 3. explore problems, obstacles, and related recommendations. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research. Data were collected from 112 monks using questionnaires, and from 10 key informants through in-depth interviews.

The findings revealed that 1. The overall level of monks’ opinions toward governance based on Buddhadhammapibhavana (Buddhist principles of good governance) was high. Among the four sublime states (Brahmavihara), the most emphasized was mudita (sympathetic joy), followed by upekkha (equanimity), metta (loving-kindness), and karuna (compassion). In addition, monks expressed strong support for the development of ecclesiastical governance, with the highest priority placed on training and capacity building. 2. The comparative analysis indicated that personal factors such as age, years of ordination, educational background, and ecclesiastical position had no statistically significant effect on differing opinions and 3. Key problems identified included ambiguity in the enforcement of regulations, lack of systematic conflict management, and delayed decision-making processes.