BUDDHISM AND THAI SOCIETY IN THE 4.0 ERA

Abstract

This academic article aimed to present the dynamics of Thai society through the integration of Buddhist principles into daily life in the Thailand 4.0 era. The study examined Thailand 4.0 as a policy framework for national development under the vision of “Security, Prosperity, and Sustainability,” which sought to transform the economic and social structures in response to digitalization and innovation. Unlike Thailand 1.0, which emphasized agriculture, Thailand 2.0, which focused on light industries, and Thailand 3.0, which emphasized heavy industries and exports, Thailand 4.0 promoted a transition toward a technology-driven economy through digital technologies, smart management, smart farming, startups, and high-tech businesses. This transition was intended to enhance workforce skills, foster innovation, and generate high-value products and services while promoting sustainable economic growth and social balance. However, Thai society faced challenges including inequality, economic competition, and online violence, which were associated with increasing mental health problems. Therefore, Buddhist principles, including mindfulness, concentration, wisdom, compassion, morality, ethics, and the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, were proposed as approaches to strengthening mental resilience and self-regulation in the digital era. The findings suggested that integrating Buddhist principles into daily life could support effective adaptation to social transformation while promoting sustainable well-being and quality of life.