Buddhism, Legitimation, and Conflict : The Political Functions of Urban Thai Buddhism in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The fundamental premise of this study is that the Buddhist sangha and Buddhist teachings play a key symbolic role in legitimating the exercise of secular power in Thailand. The author argues that a clear appreciation of the political legitimatory function of Buddhism provides the key to understanding the major theoretical and administrative changes that have taken place within Thai Buddhism in this century.

From China to Facebookistan, the Internet has transformed global commerce. A cyber-law expert argues that we must free Internet trade while simultaneously protecting consumers.

On the ancient Silk Road, treasure-laden caravans made their arduous way through deserts and mountain passes, establishing trade between Asia and the civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. Today’s electronic Silk Roads ferry information across continents, enabling individuals and corporations anywhere to provide or receive services without obtaining a visa. But the legal infrastructure for such trade is yet rudimentary and uncertain. If an event in cyberspace occurs at once everywhere and nowhere, what law applies? How can consumers be protected when engaging with companies across the world?

In this accessible book, cyber-law expert Anupam Chander provides the first thorough discussion of the law that relates to global Internet commerce. Addressing up-to-the-minute examples, such as Google’s struggles with China, the Pirate Bay’s skirmishes with Hollywood, and the outsourcing of services to India, the author insightfully analyzes the difficulties of regulating Internet trade. Chander then lays out a framework for future policies, showing how countries can dismantle barriers while still protecting consumer interests.

Contents Foreword Notes on Transliteration and Translation CHAPTER ONE. Introduction SECTION ONE: BUDDHISM AND THE THAI ÉLITE CHAPTER TWO. Development and Differentiation of the Thai Élite CHAPTER THREE. Forms of Urban Buddhism CHAPTER FOUR. State Control of the Sangha in the Twentieth Century CHAPTER FIVE. Persecution of Phra Phimontham (Vimaladhamma) Bhikkhu SECTION TWO: CONTEMPORARY URBAN BUDDHIST MOVEMENTS CHAPTER SIX. Reformist Monks CHAPTER SEVEN. Phra Phothirak Bhikkhu and Samnak Santi Asok CHAPTER EIGHT. Wat Phra Thammakaay Movement Concluding Remarks Glossary Bibliography Index THE AUTHOR