Despite occasional outbursts of political fireworks, Thailand is moving steadily into the select league of Newly Industrialized Economies. Its struggles for democracy in the face of military ambition and its continuing economic miracle make it the country to watch in Southeast Asia.
The authors of Thailand’s Turn conducted extensive research and scores of interviews (culminating in a long and highly illuminating audience with King Bhumiphol himself) for this searching analysis of Thailand’s recent development. All the major factors contributing to Thailand’s success are covered: the good fortune of avoiding colonization, the effect of Buddhism, the natural balance of political forces, and the development of sound economic policies. The Thai national character and the problems the country faces – environmental damage, income inequality, and the spread of AIDS – are also carefully considered.
Thailand’s Turn holds the key to understanding Southeast Asia as it moves into the next century. It is an indispensable guide to the “Thai way” from politics to pleasure, from Buddhism to business.
