Application of Buddhist Principles to Enhance Youth Participation in Democratic Politics the Municipality of Surin City, in Surin Province

Abstract

        This thesis has the following objectives, 1) To study the level of political participation in a democratic system among youth in the municipal area of Surin Province. 2) To examine the relationship between the Seven Principles of Non-Decline (Aparihaniyadhamma) and political participation in a democratic system among youth in the municipal area of Surin Province. 3) To propose the application of the Seven Principles of Non-Decline to enhance political participation in a democratic system among youth in the municipal area of Surin Province. This study employed a mixed-methods research approach comprising both quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative part involved a survey of 373 samples from a population of 5,457 youths aged between 15–25 years in the municipal area of Surin Province. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The qualitative part employed in-depth interviews with 10 key informants selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive content analysis based on context and presented in essay form, supported by frequency distribution tables of the key informants to reinforce the quantitative data.

The research results were found as follows;

1. The overall level of political participation in a democratic system among youth in the municipal area of Surin Province, based on the Seven Principles of Non-Decline, was at a high level. Similarly, the level of political participation in four dimensions was also at a high level ( = 4.11, S.D. = 0.55).
2. The relationship between the Seven Principles of Non-Decline and political participation in a democratic system among youth showed a moderately high positive correlation (r = .679). The hypothesis testing indicated a statistically significant positive correlation at the 0.01 level, thus the hypothesis was accepted.
3. The application of the Seven Principles of Non-Decline to enhance political participation among youth in the municipal area of Surin Province can be summarized as follows, 1) Meeting Attendance, Youth engage in continuous exchanges of ideas, fostering unity and enhancing democratic participation. 2) Concord and Discipline, Youth must exhibit discipline, understand their responsibilities, and work together systematically and efficiently. 3) Rule-Making, Youth should respect rules, adhere to laws, and participate in political activities in an orderly manner. 4) Respect for Elders, Youth should express opinions politely, listen to others, and engage constructively in democratic society. 5) Respect for Women, Promote gender equality, respect others' rights, and foster a respectful and constructive political atmosphere. 6) Respect for Institutions: Instill respect for political institutions and encourage ethical and disciplined behavior. 7) Support for the Virtuous, Encourage youth to respect moral leaders, uphold righteousness, and cultivate a sense of public-mindedness.