Democracy: A Political Sociologist’s Perspective

Abstract

This paper aims to revisit the phenomenon of democracy and to give an account of its long history of inception and develop ment. The focus is on asking what determines whether a society will become democratic or dictatorial. The factors and processes affecting the prospects for institutionalization of democracy, vari- ables, and the process of transition from an authoritarian civil or military government to one that is more pluralistic were discussed. I conclude that, as is the case of Thailand, countries that previously have had auth oritarian regimes found it diffcult to set up a legiti- mate democratic system since their traditions, mores, and beliefs are not only incompatible with but may also inhibit the workings of democracy. I also discuss and give my personal opinion on why Thailand is still and perhaps continues to be authoritarian in her political system; and finally I suggest a somewhat simple remediable strategy for my country's unfor tunate plight.