Political Culture and Online Social Network Effecting Thai Democratization

Abstract

The objectives of the study were 1) to survey the level of opinions of local residents on the political cure and online social network effecting the democracy development, 2) to analyze the relationship between the political cure and online social network effecting the democracy development and 3) to propose guidelines for development of the political cure and online social network. The population of the study were residents living in Yasothorn, Roi-et, Mahasarakham, and KhonKaen. A sample of 356 respondents were purposively selected to reflect their perception. To test the validity of the multi-item measures, the study conducted exploratory factor analysis based on the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) exceeding .40 which can be acceptable for the three constructs. All variables were analyzed for internal consistency by using Alpha Cronbach which showed a reliability of 0.97 that can be considered good. The method of study involved descriptive approach and regression analysis. The findings showed that in developing political democracy and online social network comprising the following dimensions, the interactive exchange, having common goals, internal communication within the network, political culture of citizen, members of the network, and the types of network, can affect the democratic development. The in-depth and discussion with the experts confirmed and consistent with the reflections of the informant.