Integrating the Six Principles of Righteousness to Enhance Political Culture in a Democratic System

Abstract

This academic article aims to propose guidelines for integrating the Six Principles of Saraniyadhamma (Virtues for fraternal living) to enhance the political culture in a democratic system of Thailand. It also analyzes the process of political socialization focusing on building a peaceful culture and sustainable coexistence. The study found that past Thai political crises were rooted in a lack of participant political culture and severe ideological polarization. Overcoming these challenges requires integrating Buddhist principles with political science through political socialization, utilizing the Six Principles of Saraniyadhamma as a fundamental framework for transforming citizen attitudes and behaviors. These include: 1) Metta-kayakamma, 2) Metta-vacikamma, and 3) Metta-manokamma, which foster goodwill towards those with differing views; 4) Sadharana-bhogi, for fair resource distribution; 5) Sila-samannata, for equal adherence to social rules; and 6) Ditthi-samannata, for open-mindedness to find common ground. This integration transforms democracy from a mere form of governance into a sustainable way of life, effectively reducing conflict and strengthening political stability based on non-violent principles.