Saying the Unsayable: Monarchy and Democracy in Thailand (Nias Studies in Asian Topics)

The Thai monarchy today is usually presented as both guardian of tradition and the institution to bring modernity and progress to the Thai people. It is moreover seen as protector of the nation. Scrutinizing that image, this volume reviews the fascinating history of the modern monarchy. It also analyses important cultural, historical, political, religious, and legal forces shaping the popular image of the monarchy and, in particular, of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. In this manner, the book offers valuable insights into the relationships between monarchy, religion and democracy in Thailand – topics that, after the September 2006 coup d’état, gained renewed national and international interest. Introduction : Challenging The Standard Total View Of The Thai Monarchy / Søren Ivarsson And Lotte Isager -- Part I. Sacral Kingship In A Modern World : Cultural And Ideological Foundations. Virtual Divinity : A 21st-century Discourse Of Thai Royal Influence / Peter A. Jackson -- Entertainment Nationalism : The Royal Gaze And The Gaze Of The Royals / Sarun Krittikarn -- Culture Of Monarchy : A Repertory Theatre Through Time / Martin Platt -- Part Ii. The Legal Sanction Of Sacredness. The Intricacies Of Lese-majesty : A Comparative Study Of Imperial Germany And Modern Thailand / David Streckfuss -- Part Iii. Thai-style Democracy. The Monarchy And The Royalist Movement In Modern Thai Politics, 1932-1957 / Nattapoll Chaiching -- 'thai-style Democracy' : The Royalist Struggle For Thailand's Politics / Kevin Hewison And Kengkij Kitirianglarp -- Post-coup Royalist Groups : Re-inventing Military And Ideological Power / Han Krittian -- Part Iv. Sufficiency Economy. Strengthening The Moral Fibre Of The Nation : The King's Sufficiency Economy As Etho-politics / Lotte Isager And Søren Ivarsson -- Royal Sufficiency And Elite Misrepresentation Of Rural Livelihoods / Andrew Walker. Edited By Søren Ivarsson And Lotte Isager. Includes Bibliographical References And Index.