Abstract:
The objectives of this thesis were to analyze the history of Thai and western civil society,
to study the role of Thai and western middle class on civil society, to study the main factors which
contribute Thai middle class to actively or inactively participate on civil society movement and to find
procedures or techniques for supporting sustainable the middle class civil society movements. The
research methodology is qualitative using documentary research and 3 case studies from selected civil
society organizations.
The thesis found that western civil societies played a leading role in societies and middle
classes were pivots of drive rather than inactive. The middle class strongly adopted social
responsibility, and communities. Key factors which contributed to Thai middle class active or inactive
participation in civil society movements were Thai middle class preoccupation with Individual right and
liberty.Thai middle class had a different public consciousness because of a different socialization,
reflecting the origin of each group; it was found that there was a difference in the formation of some
groups. Some were formed and grown under the support of official sectors, and were different from the
west, which grew from struggles and a prolonged history. The conclusion of the investigation points out
that the public consciousness of the middle class is vital for movements, and the factor of socialization
of the middle class affects the creation and development of public consciousness.
Recommendations, Had the Thai middle class been needed to continuously active roles in
civil society, socialization would comparatively prioritize. It should be taken into consideration that
civic education should have a remedial approach.. It was noted that capitalism affected the Thai middle
class to lessen movements and is difficult to remedy because it is the current key global economic
situation. Other conditions creating uneven movement are the economic and other social conditions,
which discriminate, oppress, and poverty, which lead a unrest. The poor are likely to stage struggles at
any time; then all persons become involved, particularly the public sectors and middle class-merchants.
Intellectuals should seek solution to social problems at large to bring peace to societies.