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The
methodology
of
“Prosopography”

and
“Explanation”
of
politics
after

the
peaceful
transform
to
democracy

Col. Dr. Sorasak Ngarmkajornkulkij*

Abstract

This article aims to examine the problems from conflicts and

political unrest in modern Thailand, particularly during the first 20 years
of the constitutional period (1932-1952). This can be an example
illustrating why peaceful means always fail despite of the availability of

compromising leaders and the addressing of conflicts through
negotiation in the Parliament. This article presents an explanation

through politics of groups rather than individuals. The method of
prosopography is used as an approach to analyzing the socio-economic
backgrounds of 600-1,200 politicians, divided into four major groups.

The aim of this analysis is to find the root cause of conflicts or
underlining factors of political unrest at the structural and cultural level.

The findings will help us understand how those factors become the
conditions supporting radicals and the use of force, not only among
the military, but also many civilians who have been able to play roles

and wield influence in problems from the year 1932 onward. Therefore,
Thai society needs to have lessons learned from history since the

reign of King Rama VII in order to avoid political violence and to build
preventive immunity to it in the society. It is also necessary to
understand and develop knowledge from group politics in order to find

ways to resolve conflicts, above the level of individuals or leaders;
that is, it is necessary to try look at problems at the structural and

cultural levels, which are an integral part to all sectors of the society.

* History Section, Department of Education, Chulachomklao Royal Military
Academy