Cultural Capital Transformation under Community Dynamics: A Case Study of Ban Saeng Pha, Thailand

Abstract

This qualitative research was conducted with the objective of studying the factors influencing changes in cultural capital in Ban Saeng Pha, Loei Province, Thailand. The study examined both tangible and intangible cultural capital, including Wat Sri Pho Chai, sacred areas, traditions and rituals, beliefs, and life wisdom. Data were collected with in-depth interviews in which the target groups were the people who know, the people who practice and the people involved in the cultural capital of Ban Saeng Pha.  The findings indicated that the changes in cultural capital in Ban Saeng Pha were predominantly driven by endogenous factors due to the practice of traditions and rituals continuously handed down by the people in the area by community leaders. This abrupt change has been influenced by cultural, social, and administrative elements collectively altering Wat Sri Pho Chai, sacred areas, and the traditions and rituals of the Flower Festival. Regarding exogenous factors, the changes were primarily influenced by political and administrative elements. The participation of administrative leaders in various traditional activities, coupled with policies aimed at stimulating the economy through the cultural capital of Ban Saeng Pha, led to sudden changes in Wat Sri Pho Chai, the flower parade tradition, and sacred areas. Interference from exogenous factors, including the acceptance and integration of foreign cultures, has led to gradual changes in the local cultural landscape. The change in the cultural capital of Ban Saeng Pha has primarily resulted from the continuous practice of traditions and rituals maintained by the local community under the guidance of its leaders. These changes, attributed to social and cultural factors, have been characterized as a gradual change.

Environmental factors play a significant role in changing cultural capital. Forest encroachment, forest concessions, changes in the forest area that is the headwaters, agricultural expansion that encroaches on the sacred forest area, and adjustments to the ritual routes within the forest due to topography. These have both physical and spiritual impacts on the continuation of rituals, beliefs, and cultural practices of the people of Ban Saeng Pha.