Overview

The prospects for Thailand's emergence as a democracy seemed strong in the 1990s. Yet, as most recently demonstrated by military coups in 2006 and 2014, that hasn't happened. Why not? Why have factors typically considered advantageous for democratization turned into barriers? Is there a uniquely Thai reason that democratization efforts have failed? Daniel Unger and Chandra Mahakanjana explore the intersecting and often contradictory forces that are shaping the nature of Thai politics today. Paying overdue attention to a complex of social, cultural, and institutional dynamics, they offer a nuanced portrait of the ongoing tug-of-war between authoritarian and democratic impulses.

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9781626374270

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A must-read.... This much-needed and refreshing alternative to simple institutional examinations provides a deep exploration of Thailand and its political upheavals. While this book squarely focuses on Thailand, ... the parallels and divergences drawn from [the Thai] case permit valuable comparative insights and lessons for those examining the contours of democracy and its discontents in other parts of the world. A sophisticated and conceptually worthwhile analysis that also asks probing questions about the nature of 21st century politics.... Offer[s] a provocative re-reading of the Thai political scene. A detailed analysis of what makes Thailand tick. Thai Politics will be applauded, criticized, and debated.

Author Information

Daniel H. Unger teaches political science at Thammasat University, Thailand. Chandra Mahakanjana teaches in the Graduate School of Public Administration at Thailand's National Institute of Development Administration.

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