This second edition of the book examines the various phases of globalization and communication technology and their impact on cultural change in Thailand. Updated with new information and expanded analysis, this edition also includes additional chapters that further explore contemporary developments in Thai society, media, and Buddhism.

The book explores Theravada Buddhism, which underpins the core values of Thai society, through the lenses of ontology, epistemology, and practical application—particularly how Buddhists cope with suffering and maintain inner calm in an increasingly chaotic world. It also explains how Theravada Buddhism has been adapted, influenced, and hybridized into the distinctive form commonly recognized as Thai Buddhism.

In addition, the book investigates issues of social justice, ethics, changing values, sustainability, self-reliance, and modes of communication within the context of Thai Buddhist culture, together with other contributing factors to social development. Drawing on both first-hand fieldwork and documentary research, and employing quantitative as well as qualitative data, the study provides a broad overview of how Thai people engage with social and mass media. It then moves on to examine digital communication in greater depth, highlighting its effects on society and individuals within Thailand’s socio-political, economic, and religious contexts.

Patchanee Malikhao received a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Imaging Technology from Chulalongkorn University and an M.A. in Mass Communication Research from Thammasat University, Thailand. As a Thai Fulbright Scholar and recipient of an Outstanding Teacher Award, she studied at the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York, USA, from 1996 to 1998, where she earned an M.S. in Printing Technology.

She was also awarded the Australian Postgraduate Award to pursue studies in Sociology at the University of Queensland, Australia, where she completed her doctorate degree in Sociology in 2008.

Over a career spanning more than 35 years, Patchanee has evolved from an Imaging Technology specialist into a Sociologist specializing in Health Communication for Development and Sustainability. She has taught in many parts of the world and conducted research focusing on the Sociology of Thai Buddhist culture, Buddhism, Effective Health Communication for Sustainability, and Communication for Development.

In this book, she examines the impacts of globalization on Thai Buddhism, as well as the influence of mass and new media on Thai Buddhist culture. In addition, the book explores issues related to ecology, tourism, human rights, and animal rights.