Paper Title
The Establishment of a Monk Network for Buddhist Well-Being in Current Thai Society
Abstract
This research was performed on the basis of an exploration, analysis and explanation of the Buddhist-well-being network in current Thai society. The emphasis was put on the outstanding components and movements according to the role of Buddhist organizations and the civil work of Buddhist monks in Thai society. The theoretical frameworks used to perform an analysis of these ideas are sociological theology and engaged Buddhism, which were combined together to understand the changed society which is currently affecting the well-being network of Buddhist monks. The research was performed on a qualitative basis which an anthropological approach was used to collect the data. The data collection was conducted by carrying out in-depth interviews, a group discussion and participatory observation, which involved Buddhist monks, sociologists and Buddhist academicians. It also involved corporate and public health executives who are currently involved with and support the Buddhist-well-being monk network. Firstly, the results of the study revealed that the Buddhist monk network has been enabled to develop a variety of local activities. These activities reflect the context of societal demands and the culture of each local community. Secondly, it was revealed that a form of well-being development which was followed in a Buddhist way and was operated by Buddhist monks encourages Buddhist organizations, public sector, local administration and civil society to construct concrete well-being management and develop a sustainable society through the network’s activities. It also encourages long-term cooperation among all involved parties.
Index Terms - Buddhist Well-being, Monk Network, Socially Engaged Buddhism