Political Socialization and Participation among University Students in Thailand

Abstract

DURING TEN DAYS in October 1973, military government of Field Marshall Thanom Kittikachorn was overthrown as a direct result of demonstrations by Thai university students. Increasing pressure by politically oriented National Student Center of Thailand led to ultimate confrontation between students and forces of authority. Pressure upon government to promulgate a new permanent constitution led to arrest of student leaders. Events quickly escalated from initial demands to release those arrested, to student attacks upon military government and, finally, to resignation of government leaders. The activities of October 6-15, 1973 confirmed importance of students in Thai political system. These students had nort been noted for their active involvement in politics of Thailand. However, as one observer stated, the events of 1973 will certainly result in a revision of customary appraisal of Thai students as interested only in cars, threwv, and high status jobs in civil service.1 This reappraisal of Thai students might best begin with an analysis of formation of political attitudes and beliefs in student population. This study, therefore, focuses on political socialization experiences of students at Thammasat University. The research site is particularly appropriate since most of leadership during October events was provided by Thammasat students and University was primary scene of anti-government activity.