Solving Drug Problems through Buddhist Ethics: A Case Study of Wat Pa Chonlapratan Sattharam, Nam Phong Subdistrict, Nam Phong District, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

The research aims to: (1) study the drug problems in Ban Hin Kong community; (2) study Buddhist ethical principles for addressing drug problems; and (3) analyze how Wat Pa Chonlapratan Sattharam applies Buddhist ethics in solving drug problems in Nam Phong Subdistrict, Nam Phong District, Khon Kaen Province. This is qualitative research based on primary and secondary sources, including in-depth interviews. The data was collected from 30 key informants and analyzed descriptively using inductive methods.
The findings of the research were as follows:
1. The causes of drug addiction in Ban Hin Kong community, Nam Phong Subdistrict, Nam Phong District, Khon Kaen Province include: (1) impulsiveness and curiosity, (2) peer influence, (3) family problems, and (4) environmental factors.
2. The approaches to solving and preventing drug problems in the community through Buddhist ethics involve applying the Four Noble Truths to understand the root causes and solutions, the Four Brahmavihara to promote compassion and non-judgmental understanding of those who have gone astray, and the Five Precepts to instill mental discipline and reduce deviant behaviors. The application of these principles helps rehabilitate offenders and strengthen the community’s mental immunity.
3. The drug problem-solving approach of Wat Pa Chonlapratan Sattharam emphasizes the use of multicultural factors as key tools in implementation. The community chooses context-appropriate strategies through public participation alongside the enforcement of state laws. Seven synthesized measures were identified: awareness campaigns, legal enforcement, promotion of local culture and wisdom, rehabilitation and vocational support, community agreement meetings, multi-sectoral networking, and the application of Buddhist teachings. These strategies aim to create a sustainable and systematic solution aligned with the community context.