The Development of Human Behavior of Customs Department Personnel According to Buddhist Ethics

Abstract

The objectives of this research were: 1) to study the problems and principles of human behavior development, 2) to examine the Buddhist ethical principles for human behavior development, and 3) to analyze the development of human behavior among Customs Department personnel based on Buddhist ethics. This study employed a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected from primary sources, including the Tipiaka and related Buddhist scriptures, and secondary sources, including books, academic articles, and relevant research works. In-depth interviews were conducted with 25 key informants. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inductive methods.
The research findings revealed that:
1. The development of human behavior among Customs Department personnel encountered four major ethical problems: lack of honesty, lack of public consciousness, lack of responsibility, and lack of discipline. These problems adversely affected work efficiency and the organizational image. Appropriate development guidelines include promoting ethics through training programs, fostering a transparent organizational culture, and encouraging leaders to serve as moral role models.
2. Buddhist ethics emphasize the internal development of human behavior through the Threefold Training (Tri-sikkh), namely morality (Sla), concentration (Samdhi), and wisdom (Paññ). Morality regulates external behavior, concentration strengthens mental stability, and wisdom promotes understanding of the causes and consequences of 
actions. In addition, the Fourfold Development (Bhvan 4) physical development 
(Kya-bhvan), moral development (Sla-bhvan), mental development (Citta-bhvan), and wisdom development (Paññ-bhvan) provides a holistic framework for personal and social development.
3. The ethical problems of Customs Department personnel can be addressed through the application of Buddhist ethical principles. The Threefold Training serves as a framework for behavioral regulation, mental cultivation, and wisdom enhancement, while the Fourfold Development promotes the cultivation of body, speech, mind, and wisdom. These principles contribute to the development of honesty, public-mindedness, responsibility, and discipline, leading to appropriate behavior, effective job performance, and sustainable organizational trust.