Perception and Practice of Concept of Sufficiency Economy and Boon Niyom (Merit-based) Economy in Community Economy of Asoke Community

Abstract

          This study aimed to analyze the perception and practice of concepts of Sufficiency Economy and Boon Niyom (merit-based) Economy in community economy of Asoke Community and to recommend how to apply both concepts for community economies and public policies. The study adopted a quantitative research approach using survey and participant observation. The population of the study consisted of 284 Asoke people in Ratchathani Asoke, Ubon Ratchathani province. Data were collected using convenience sampling from a sample of 166 Asoke people. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with percentages. The findings revealed that the respondents had a highest-level perception of both concepts; there is concordance Congruence between the two concepts was shown in goals, basic concepts, and practice. People of Asoke had applied the concepts of Sufficiency Economy and Boon Niyom Economy in their community economic practices at the highest level. Recommendations from this study were that related sectors need to realize and learn how to apply the concept of Sufficiency Economy for economic development. Ratchathani Asoke community can be a role model since it successfully applied both Sufficiency Economy and Boon Niyom Economy concepts for developing their own self-reliant community. The government should provide more support to Ratchathani Asoke community which is a Buddhist community. In addition, community businesses can apply both concepts to their business practices, particularly Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in various aspects including business, environment and ethics.