The purpose of this study consisted of 3 objectives : 1) to study the concepts of consumerism of Thai society 2) to study the Dhamma principles relating the consumerism in Buddhism, and 3) to study the application of Dhamma in solving consumerism behavior problems of upper secondary level students at Nakhonsawan School. The data gathered had been done from Tipitaka texts, related documents, textbooks as well as related research work.
According to the findings from the study, the following results revealed that :
1) In present, changes in the context of social change in Thai society are much faster and much more complex. Impacts on Thai living from an agricultural to an industrial society include the growth of economic, social, and cultural values, as well as an increase in modern science and technologies. Competition for social status through wealth has begun to outweigh values that were previously at the core of Thai society.
2) The Buddhism Principles in congruence with consumerism in Tipikata include that everyone follow the Five Precepts. The Five Precepts are comprised of
§
consumption based on adequacy of survival, self sufficiency, economic sufficiency and fellow principles of Buddhism based on Trisikkha (Three studies). Trisikkha incorporates Sila (good conduct), Smadhi (concentration), and Panna (wisdom). The Five Precepts and Trisikkha incorporate a person to be reasonable, act in a moderate way, be punctual, and respect and obey elders. It was believed that the Buddhism Principles (Dhamma) would lead one’s life to be progressive, prosperous, and live happily in society.
3) Nakhonsawan School applied the Buddhism Principles to solve the consumerism behavior problems of the students and to encourage them to “develop fully in all aspects, physical, intellectual, and spiritual” Student will thus be able to acquire knowledge and be endowed with morality to make them capable of leading a happy and harmonious life among others. Nakhonsawan School took several measures to achieve this goal; integrate principles of Buddhism into the teaching – learning process and organize and participate in relevant activities. |
