CONTESTING POWER PROCESS AND ETHICAL THEMES IN BAD GENIUS LITERATURE

Abstract

The objectives of this research article were to analyze contesting power process of characters and Buddhist ethical themes in Bad Genius novel of Ror Ruea Nai Mahasamut. Pierre Bourdieu’s theories and Buddhist ethical themes are applied as framework in this research. This study is a qualitative research relying on descriptive-analytical approach. The results showed the cause of the contesting power is social inequality, resulting from inequality in capital ownership, class differences, and the shaping of family habitus. The results showed that 1) inequality, privilege, and corruption are all problems caused by capital. 2) Inequality is exacerbated by class. 3) Fields are places where characters demonstrate their value, negotiation, and struggle for dominance. 4) Habitus has discovered two characteristics: a constant habitus and a shifting habitus. 5) Five strategies for competing for power were found: conservation, inheritance, rejection, negotiation, and overthrow. 6) Tuition payments, special education, scholarships, and grading scales are all examples of symbolic violence in education. From the study ethical themes, it was discovered that themes in the literature are related to five Buddhist principles: Ajjava, Panna, Kleshas Vatta, Kamma, and Yoniso Manasikara. The author proposed the idea there were two factors contributing to the corrupt. The first factor was lackng of good Paratoghosa, which was an external factor. The second factor was lacking of Yoniso Manasikara, which was an internal factor. By the reason of such factors, which led the characters to aim things with highly wanted. They emerged as the Kleshas Vatta that nurtured Akusalakamma, which caused suffering. As a consequence, the relief of suffering should begin with the rectification of Mano-Kamma by using Yoniso Manasikara as a factor to drive for Sammadinnhi. These lead to the results in an awareness of not doing evil and an eagerness to do good.