The Development of Social Capital in Pathum Thani Province towards Sustainable Development Based on Sufficiency Economy Philosophy

Abstract

After becoming Thailand’s national agenda since the Ninth National Economic and Social Development Plan (2002-2006), social capital is promoted as one of community development approach. With the implementation of the 11th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2012-2016), social capital becomes significant in social institutions strengthening for locality to reach sustainability. The objectives of the research were as followed; (1) To study and collect information of social capital in Pathum Thani Province area, (2) To analyze conditions of social capital in Pathum Thani area, (3) To study problem and constraints of social capital in Pathum Thani Province toward sustainable development according to sufficiency economy philosophy, (4) To study effective process to develop social capital in Pathum Thani Province toward sustainable development according to sufficiency economy philosophy, and (5) To make guidelines for social capital development in Pathum Thani Province toward sustainable development according to sufficiency economy philosophy. Qualitative approach was used as research method for studying, data collecting and documentary analysis on social capital in accordance with Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. To test creditability of data, data triangulation was employed as tool. The research found as followed that: 1) People in Pathum Thani have strong social cohesion and networks in knowledge capital and wisdom of the village philosophers and community-based and careerbased leaders that are the starting point of social networks both within and outside the community emerging to daily living culture of each community and locality, 2) People have the principles of effective community management by introducing the "Sufficiency Economy Philosophy of King Rama IX" to use in the life of the community. 3) To build a good relationship between the people in the community and the leaders in the community for coexistence will create a network and good relationships that accelerate the benefits of participating in activities for engagement creation. 4) Good knowledge, perseverance and patience, mindfulness and intelligence, and harmony of local wisdom combined with academic principles, careful planning and practice enhances appropriate processes for the development of social capital for sustainable development through moderation and the building of immunity to sustainable development in accordance with the philosophy of sufficiency economy. 5) The development of social capital in Pathum Thani Province towards sustainable development must focus on strengthening the people's capital of different areas, economic capital, natural resources and environment which are combined and inter-related for the benefits of development leading to strong community development and emphasizing on community support and the power of the community in developing countries.