DEVELOPING THE CULTURAL CAPITAL OF ANCIENT COMMUNITIES IN KORAT THROUGH SOCIAL POWER

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1) Study the cultural heritage of ancient communities in the original Korat region, 2) Develop the cultural capital of ancient communities in the original Korat region through social power, 3) Create a collaborative network for developing the cultural capital of ancient communities in the original Korat region through social power. This research uses qualitative methods and key informants include representatives from Buddhism, government agencies, community leaders, and 30 citizens. Using a purposive sampling method, the research data collection tool was in-depth interviews. Content validity and item validity were assessed using the index of content validity. Descriptive data analysis revealed the following: 1) The cultural capital of the ancient local community of Korat consists of religious capital, which functions as a framework for moral guidance and a center for learning; social capital, which reflects kinship relationships, unity, and mutual reliance; art and folk craft capital, which serves both as a heritage of wisdom and a basis for the local economy; as well as natural capital that demonstrates living in harmony with the environment. When combined systematically, these create stability in culture, economy, and quality of life. 2) The development of the ancient local community's cultural area, under collaboration among the government, religious institutions, communities, and relevant networks, is based on participatory principles that lead to the conservation and restoration of learning centers, reflecting community identity. This also promotes the economy, tourism, and systematic knowledge transfer. 3) Creating collaborative networks through social power plays a crucial role in sustainability, linking the work of government sectors that support policies and resources, local leaders who drive and coordinate efforts, and citizens and community scholars who share wisdom and design learning activities, resulting in model creative learning centers.