MAINTAINING POWER IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF FIELD MARSHAL P. PIBULSONGKRAM ACCORDING TO NICCOLO MACHIAVELLI'S CONCEPT OF MAINTAINING POLITICAL POWER.

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to study and analyze the strategies used by Field Marshal P. to maintain his rule. Pibulsongkram, following the political power preservation ideas of Niccolo Machiavelli, had three secondary objectives: 1. To classify and analyze Marshal P.'s methods of maintaining power. Pibulsongkram in various dimensions, including managing his own forces, treating the old power groups, and selecting political assistants or advisors within the framework of Machiavelli's perspective. To compare the similarities and differences between the political practices of the Marshal P. Pibulsongkram and the principles in the book The Prince, particularly regarding adapting to circumstances (Virtù) and facing destiny (Fortuna) in the context of Thai politics 3. To analyze the limitations of Machiavelli's ideas in explaining Thai political phenomena, particularly regarding the revival of the role of traditional institutions and
Compromising with the old power groups in the second term was done using documentary research methods. The research design was descriptive-analytical. The study found three main ways to maintain power in various dimensions: treating the old power groups by decisively eliminating political enemies, managing the armed forces by using the army as the main power base, and selecting assistants. This clearly reflects the use of Virtù according to Machiavelli's concept. However, the study also found differences and limitations of Machiavelli's concept when applied to the Thai political context, particularly in the restoration and compromise with traditional institutions, which is a strategy not recommended in The Prince. Additionally, the failure to select assistants resulted in a threat to the leader, ultimately leading to the loss of power. Therefore, the research indicates that even Virtù This will be a crucial factor in maintaining power, but if there is a lack of prudence and an inability to adapt to Fortuna and the changing socio-political context, maintaining power will not be sustainable.