This study examines the role of Buddhist monks as development agents in
rural Thailand. Through 20 years of field studies, and with a focus on
Northeast Thailand (which is known as Isan and long classified as the
poorest region of Thailand), author Pinit Lapthananon investigates
development in contemporary Thailand. Although development monks form a
small percentage of the monks in Isan, or in Thailand as a whole, their
actions have been highly visible in Thai society for more than five
decades, and they have helped to maintain a balance between
modernization and traditional culture. The book examines the role of
Buddhism, investigates religious and socioeconomic activities, and
probes the changing approach to development - with an emphasis on
economic growth to support both social and human development,
self-sufficiency, community participation and empowerment, and the
revitalization of traditional knowledge and folk wisdom. The Role of
Development Monks in Northeast Thailand will help in understanding the
process of development and social change in Isan society. (Series: Kyoto
Area Studies on Asia - Vol. 22)