Dynamics of Network Monarchy: Observations about Changes of Thai Elite Network during B.E. 2495 - 2535

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Asa Kumpha

Abstract

Although the concept of network monarchy has been seen emerging across numerous academic works in the fields of political science, political history of Thailand and contemporary history in past decades, the concept has only been used within a theoretical and conceptual framework for analysis. Given the lack of a specific study on the network monarchy, this article attempts to give an analytical study on the relationship between the network monarchy and the Thai elite network. The study found that the formation and dynamics of the network monarchy correlates to the “royal hegemony” of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej in each period. While components of the network monarchy belong to the Thai elite group, the correlation exists in “Relative Autonomy”, affecting the movement, expansion and contraction of the network monarchy periodically; depending on rhythm of the royal hegemony. In addition, as the network monarchy is part of the Thai elite network structure, “consensus among the Thai elite” is essential; having effects on determining the rhythm of the royal hegemony. By all means, the formation and dynamics of the network monarchy provides an analytical explanation onto the development and structural changes within the Thai elite network at a macroscopic scale.

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References

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