Grassroots Political Science: A Community Platform for Civic Discourse on the Lan So-Lay
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Abstract
This article examines the concept and role of “Lan Sole” (Larn Sole), a local community gathering space, as a social and political arena that emerges from traditional Thai oral culture. Rather than being merely a space for informal conversation, Lan Sole serves as a site of learning, participation, and grassroots democracy. The study traces the historical roots and socio-cultural functions of Lan Sole, linking it to micro-political theories, everyday politics, and participatory democracy. It highlights how Lan Sole provides a safe and inclusive space for community members to voice their concerns, share experiences, and engage in collective decision-making. The analysis suggests that Lan Sole functions as an alternative political forum that empowers citizens, amplifies local voices, and facilitates power negotiation at the community level—making it a vital mechanism for building bottom-up democracy in Thailand.
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