Improving The Quality of Life for Upgrading the Basic Economy Using Buddhist Teaching of Ethnic Communities in Mae Hong Son

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the model for improving quality of life to upgrade the grassroots economy using Buddhist principles in ethnic communities in Mae Hong Son Province, 2) develop such a model, and 3) present a suitable development model. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative research and participatory action research. The study was conducted in Ban Mae Maebok, Mae Hong Son Province. Key informants included the abbot of Wat Ban Maebok, community leaders/village headmen and their assistants, leaders of various community groups, and community elders, totaling 14 individuals.

The research findings indicate that improving quality of life to upgrade grassroots organizations can be achieved through the use of research capital and traditional enterprise practices combined with agricultural control, while generating income and strengthening the community economy. The development of a model for Ban Mae Mae Ri: Improving Quality of Life to Upgrade the Grassroots Economy Based on Buddhist Principles involves applying Buddhist principles such as the Threefold Path of Contentment, the Threefold Social Harmony, Self-Reliance, the Four Sublime States of Mind, and the Four Bases of Success (Iddhipada 4) in daily life. The community found that this can be implemented through online media such as Facebook and community marketplace websites like Jai Sai Community Market to attract local products and showcase culture within local networks. Furthermore, health tourism policies such as the OTOP Innovation Way project and the concept of health tourism are applied to examine the principle of Right Livelihood. The principles of social welfare and unity form the basis for prioritizing research. Research indicates that consumers should provide funding and strengthen collaborative networks in tourism to ensure lasting positive impacts on the grassroots economy and the quality of life of communities.