An Application of the Principle of Aparihāniyatham 7 to Promote People’s Participation in Preventing Forest Fires and Haze at Tha Song Yang District Administrative Office, Tak Province.

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) study the level of public participation, 2) compare public participation, and 3) propose guidelines for promoting public participation by applying the principles of Aparihāniyadhamma7. This was mixed methods research. 387 population and sample were chosen using Taro Yamane's calculation formula. The questionnaire and interview form were examined by five experts. The IOC result was more than 0.8 for every question. The confidence value for the entire document was equal to 0.982. In-depth interviews were conducted with ten experts. Statistics for data analysis included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, T-test, F-value, and descriptive content analysis.

The results showed that:

1) The level of public participation in preventing forest fires and haze was overall at a high level in every aspect.

2) For comparison of opinions on public participation in forest fire and haze prevention, classified by personal factors, it was found that different ages, occupations, and incomes had different contributions with statistical significance at the 0.05 level. The hypothesis was accepted. Different genders and education showed no difference in participation. Therefore, the research hypothesis was rejected.

3) For guidelines for promoting public participation in preventing forest fires and haze by applying the principles of Aparihāniyadhamma7, it was found that            1) To hold regular and frequent meetings. 2) Meeting coordination should be given importance in each meeting. 3) In terms of not making or abstaining from arbitrary regulations, people should adhere to the established rules and regulations. 4) Obedience to superiors. When there is a meeting, the chairman should perform his duties efficiently and not expect anything in return. 5) Honoring and protecting women’s rights. Women’s opinions should be heard. 6) Promoting and preserving good cultural traditions. Participation in preserving culture, and traditions should be encouraged, traditions. 7) In terms of proper protection and protection, religious leaders and people in the area should share experiences.