Ideas on Buddhism and Public Interest Principle in the Thai Public Law

Abstract

The objectives of this article are 1) to study ideas regarding the relations between Buddhism and basic principles of the public law, 2) to study ideas regarding the public interest principle in the Thai public law, and 3) to study Buddhism concepts relating to the public interest principle in the Thai public law. This qualitative research was carried out by mean of documentary research methodology. The data was collected, arranged, and analyzed in accordance with the points of the study. The findings are as follows. 1) Buddhism has relation and coherence with the public law in respect of ideals since the application of law must be essentially based on legitimacy and morality and aim to the objectives of the public law. Also, it has relation in respect of the provisions enacted as laws, such as those concerning Buddhism patronage and protection in the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand and other relevant laws. 2) Propagation of Buddhism doctrines or any Buddhism activity is performed for a purpose of public interest and is considered a form of the State’s public services. 3) Buddhism concepts that relate to the public interest principle in the Thai public law, which are moral principles representing good attributes of governors, are the sovereignty principle, the Sangaha Vatthu 4 principle or the 4 principles of service for rulers, and the virtues of the King (the tenfold royal virtues).