Journal of Prajna Ashram

Buddhist Ethics and the Philosophical Analysis of Contemporary Child and Youth Problems

sawang sittiwang — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article aims to: 1) analyze the causes and characteristics of problems among children and youth in contemporary Thai society; 2) propose approaches to addressing these problems through the application of Buddhist principles; and 3) explain the role of Buddhism as a framework of social ethics capable of elevating moral problem-solving from the individual to the structural and cultural level.

The study reveals that the problems of children and youth are not merely personal behaviors but manifestations of crises in social, economic, and familial systems lacking moral balance. Core Buddhist teachings such as the Five Precepts, the Four Divine States (Brahmavihāra), the Four Bases of Success (Iddhipāda), and the Four Virtues for Household Life (Gharāvāsa-dhamma) can serve as guiding principles for nurturing virtue and fostering mental resilience among the young. At the same time, these principles cultivate a sense of social responsibility grounded in the “Ethics of Compassion,” which emphasizes the interdependent relationship between self and others. When integrated into families, schools, and communities, these Buddhist values can reduce risk behaviors, promote the development of morally grounded citizens, and contribute to a peaceful and sustainable society.

The Construction of Cultural Identity in Saud Berk of Lanna

PhraKittichai Cittapañño Panyanont, Thepprawin Chanraeng, Phiphatphong Masiri — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article examines the Lanna Saud Berk chanting ritual as a process of cultural identity formation. Employing a qualitative approach through literature review, interpretation, and philosophical synthesis, the study explores the meanings and societal roles of the ritual. Findings indicate that Saud Berk contributes to Lanna identity in four dimensions: 1) Lanna Buddhism and philosophical practices 2) Locality and community identity 3) Language and cultural communication 4) Musical art and Lanna singing traditions

The ritual reflects traditional beliefs while adapting to the context of globalization, linking spiritual practices with community life. From the perspective of Buddhist philosophy—including anattā, tilakkhaṇa, paṭiccasamuppāda, and śūnyatā—identity is dynamic, arising from interdependent conditions. Saud Berk thus functions both as a religious practice and a philosophical act, preserving cultural values and connecting with the contemporary search for life’s meaning.

Interacting with Media: Learning Beyond the Teacher-Centered Paradigm

Virunpat Wongsa — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article aims to (1) analyze the transformation of learning paradigms from teacher-centered to learner-centered approaches, emphasizing the role of interactive media in fostering active engagement, and (2) critique philosophical perspectives concerning the role of technology in learning within the digital era. Drawing upon a case study of interactive media developed for judo education in higher education, the study elucidates how visual, auditory, and real-time responsive elements can enable learners to construct knowledge through participatory and self-directed experiences.

The analysis integrates John Dewey’s philosophy of experiential learning and interaction with the environment, alongside Lev Vygotsky’s concepts of the zone of proximal development and social learning. Both perspectives are situated within the constructivist framework, which views knowledge as actively generated through learners’ interactions with their contexts and peers. Moreover, the discussion engages with philosophical questions regarding learner autonomy, human existence in virtual environments, and the evolving role of teachers as designers of learning experiences rather than transmitters of content.

The philosophical implications of the analysis suggest that a critical and reflective application of interactive media can expand learners’ freedom, cultivate human potential, and open new dimensions for education in the twenty-first century—allowing it to respond more profoundly and sustainably to global transformation.

Humanitarian governance in Confucian philosophy

Terapon Buwthong — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article examines the concept of “Humanitarian governance” in Confucian philosophy, elucidating the intrinsic relationship between personal virtue and social order. The study reveals that Confucius regards Ren (仁) — humanity — as the supreme principle of coexistence, emphasizing moral cultivation through daily conduct as the foundation of a peaceful and just society. For Confucius, social harmony originates within the family, where filial piety and the maintenance of harmonious relationships constitute the essence of moral life.
Confucian philosophy, rather than orienting toward the afterlife, situates its ethical ideal in the creation of goodness within the present world. Emotional self-regulation, guided by conscience, is central to moral discipline, as emotions profoundly shape human behavior and communal relations. Confucius contends that Ren is not an innate state but a continuous process of self-cultivation—a synthesis of moral learning, disciplined practice, and appropriate conduct. Such cultivation transcends the individual, radiating outward to foster collective harmony, order, and sustainable moral flourishing within society.

Buddhist Marital Ethics: The Philosophy of Human Relations

Parichat Andraes, Peter Lee Andraes — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article explores Buddhist principles applicable to marital life, focusing on the Six Directions in the Siṅgālasutta, which define the duties of husband and wife. It also highlights the Maṅgala Sutta, which emphasizes mutual support through the Four Principles of Social Harmony (Saṅgahavatthu), and the Gharavasa Dhamma, which provide ethical foundations for household life. In addition, the Brahmavihārā foster compassion and peaceful coexistence, while the Samajīvidhamma guide couples toward lasting harmony. Applying these teachings strengthens mutual understanding, kindness, and unity, leading to a stable and enduring family life.