Political Thoughts of Jit Phumisak

Abstract

A study of Jit Phumisak's political thoughts employed an analytical framework rooted in the historiographical approach developed by Quentin Skinner, facilitating a nuanced exploration of the intellectual contributions of the former thinker. To fully comprehend a thinker's ideas, it is essential to examine both the text representing the thinker's thoughts and the context, encompassing the historical and environmental conditions that influence the formation of political ideas.

Through an examination of the historical context, encompassing political, economic, and social factors that shaped Jit's thinking, it is discerned that the political language consistently employed and emphasized by the thinker is as follows: Radical patriotism is characterized by a profound attachment to the homeland constructed by one's ancestors, encompassing the historical and cultural legacy transmitted through successive generations. His conceptualization of nationality refers to the predominant demographic within a given nation. In the context of internationalism, it denotes the equitable appreciation of each other's distinctiveness. Jit endeavors to alter societal conditions for most people. Buddhism shares some teachings that bear a resemblance to the materialistic ideology of Marxism. However, overall, its teachings predominantly align with idealism. The Struggle for Class Equality in Thai Society: Jit's writings initiate an exploration of the proletarian class's struggle, progressing through the middle class's resistance against the Thai feudal system. The historical narrative unfolds, tracing the trajectory from opposition to the labor conscription system to its transformation into the Siamese revolution of 1932.