The Application of Yoniso-Manasikara to Online Media Perception to Address Faith Crises of Buddhism in Thailand

Abstract

Online media in contemporary Thai society had become a critical channel for disseminating information concerning the monastic institution (Sangha). The content, often presented rapidly, was typically lacking complete contextual information and was easily used to evoke emotional responses from the audience. This situation led to widespread misunderstandings and was found to impact the public trust placed in the monastic institution significantly. The widespread perception, rooted in incomplete data, was therefore prone to creating deeper societal instability than what was apparent in social media trends.

The primary objective of this article was established to propose a guideline for developing intellectual immunity (Panya) among the public when consuming media related to the monastic institution. This was achieved through an analytical and integrative approach, where Buddhist principles were blended with the context of contemporary digital society. Emphasis was placed on the consideration of issues alongside the principles of Sangha governance. Addressing this issue was deemed necessary by understanding both the administrative structure of the Sangha and the internal process for investigating ecclesiastical offenses (Athikorn) according to the Vinaya (Buddhist discipline). These internal mechanisms were often not presented in brief news reports. Within this context, the application of the Buddhist principle "Yoniso Manasikara" (Systematic Attention) was highlighted as a crucial framework to help recipients systematically examine information, question the completeness of facts, and consider the relationship between causes and conditions.

 Reflection based on Yoniso Manasikara was shown to help recipients delay emotional reactions, differentiate individual behavior from the institutional role, and reduce the likelihood of premature conclusions being drawn from insufficient data. The expected outcomes were identified as increased accuracy in news interpretation, the reinforcement of balanced understanding between society and the monastic institution, and the development of an intellectual immunity suitable for the contemporary digital society. These results were considered an essential foundation for the long-term stability of Buddhism.