Buddhist-Political Sciences: An Introductory Analysis of Definition and Application to the Politic and Government -

Abstract

This article aimed to study the meaning of Buddhist-Political Sciences, the principles in Buddhism that can be applied to politics and government, and the application. The selection criterion for the principles in Buddhism included; understandable, uncomplicated, and practical. The results of the current study indicated that “Buddhist-Political Science” is the knowledge of applying Buddhist principles to politics and government. It is about the relationship between Buddhism and the state in term of political and administration. State and religion are closely related to people at all levels. In Buddhism, there are important teaching principles that are able to practice in politics and government namely Sujarit 3 (Good conduct III), Gharavasa-Dhamma 4 (Virtues for a good household life), Brahma-Vihara 4 (The Four Divine States), and Tosapitharatham (Virtues of the king). The above 4 dharma principles covered all 3 aspects of live body, mental, and speech. If people bring them to practice, it will benefit both oneself and others especially in Thai society where most people are Buddhists. It will make the society stronger and the state will have good and moral leaders. This is because knowledge, politics and power are not making the effective development and fairness. Therefore, the dharma principles that are applied seriously and appropriately will be a mechanism to promote people to live their life together happily. So, the state will achieve each development in various fields sustainably.