| ID | 193136 |
| Title Proper | Pot Calling the Kettle Black |
| Other Title Information | Populism and Thai Conservative Movements, 2006-2014 |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Luxmiwattana, Motoki |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | It is often asserted that the Thai public, particularly members of the urban middle class in Bangkok, are inherently conservative, leading them to support mass protests preceding recent military coups. What is often overlooked is that support for these movements has not been consistent, with polls suggesting that at many points, the Bangkok public has opposed these protests. This prompts the question: why has the broader public supported anti-democratic conservative moments at key moments, but not others? This article argues that Thai conservative movements have received support when they engage in populism, in contrast to when these movements revert to more traditional, authoritarian mobilization tactics. This points to the possible existence of an alternative strand of Thai conservatism, one this article tentatively terms populist conservatism. Paying attention to this vague, yet powerful symbol of “the People” offers a more plausible explanation for the successes and failures of modern Thai conservative movements. |
| `In' analytical Note | Critical Asian Studies Vol. 55, No.3; Sep 2023: p.440-462 |
| Journal Source | Critical Asian Studies 2023-09 55, 3 |
| Key Words | Conservatism ; Thailand ; Social Movements ; Populism ; Yellow Shirts |