ABSTRACT

      This thesis is a documentary research aiming to (1) examine the principles of Buddhist ethics for consumption of the four basic necessities, (2) investigate consumption of the four basic necessities by a group of Thai people who are in favor of consumerism, and (3) analyze the consumption of the basic necessities based on Buddhist ethics. The results of the study are summarized below.

      Buddhist ethics in relation to the consumption of the four basic necessities refers to the consumption with wisdom consisting of reasons and understanding of the true value, which are essential parts of the human behavior and existence based on ethical code of conduct. The consumption of the four basic necessities, according to Buddhist ethics, is not just a response to the basic physical need, but also a path leading to the highest aim of life, full of potential, goodness, and beauty. In other words, Buddhist ethics tends to move toward perfectionism, a code of conduct that is not changeable to circumstances.  Buddhist consumption can be divided into two types: (1) consumption by Buddhist priests, and (2) consumption by Buddhist laity. The two types of consumption are under the principles of Buddhist ethics related to the four basic necessities: Sappurisadhamma, virtue of the righteous; (the seven) qualities of a good man; Yonisomanasikara, proper attention; systematic attention; having thorough method in one’s thought; genetical reflection; analytical reflection; Majjhima patipada, the Middle Path; the Middle Way; and Santutthi, Santosa, contentment; satisfaction with whatever is one’s own. Human consumption arises from the basic need but that begins with Tanha or craving; desire; thirst, which leads to two types of consumption values: genuine values and fake values. The real purpose of human consumption of the four basic necessities is to exist and develop toward a more sustainable perfection, not just to satisfy cravings or promote physical beauty.

Consumption of the four basic necessities by a group of Thai people in favor of consumerism depends on the borrowed value and their own beliefs; they tried to emulate other people’s taste and applied it to their own in terms of food, clothing, shelters, and medicine. This is because majority of Thai people are more materialist than mentalist in the belief that  material gains can bring happiness, prosperity , and social recognition to them and their families. This belief has become the culture of consumption among the consumerism-minded people from whom Thai people copy the behavior making them unable to follow the middle path of consumption.

Based on the principles of Buddhist ethics, the analysis of Thai people’s consumerist behavior indicated that it was caused by the tendency to satisfy their need and maximum contentment. This excessive consumption behavior caused ethical problems such as those in the family, education, economy, society, and culture. However, Buddhist ethics, as supporter of consumerism, stresses the significance of simplicity and hospitality, encourages the consumption with wisdom, and considers consumerism as only an economic activity to satisfy the need. As opponent to consumerism, Buddhist ethics takes the view that illegitimate or redundant acquisition of the four basic necessities, with no consideration of consumption ethics is the cause of ethical and other problems; still worse, it reduces the human value and potential. Therefore, this study of Buddhist ethics and consumption of the four basic necessities by Thai people will be useful and relevant if we apply the principles of Buddhist ethics in our consumption that will lead to the reduction or elimination of unnecessary or redundant acquisition and consumption.