สำนักราชบัณฑิตยสภา

The Journal of the Royal Institute of Thailand Volume III - 2011 73 Suwilai Premsrirat unique cultures and linguistic histories, and will provide sustainable public benefits in terms of both economic and security gains. It is hoped therefore, that, along with the promotion of Thai as the national/official language and languages such as English, and Chinese as favoured international languages, support for the use of ethnic languages belonging to the Tai and other language families in public life, education, and the local mass media, is sorely needed to meet the demands and needs of ethnic minority marginalized groups. Such support will lead to sustainable public benefits in terms of both economic and security gain. In this way Thailand will benefit from a language policy that strengthens the Thai language while preserving Thailandûs ethnic minority / indigenous languages, encouraging Thais to learn strategic regional and international languages and ensuring information access for Thailandûs blind and deaf communities. The recognition and respect that derives from truly interconnected and synergized communities will bring together Thais from all walks of life in true reconciliation, security and happiness. VII. Conclusion A dynamic and changing society demands a contemporary approach to interpreting and managing complex socio-cultural issues. The notion of çThainessé, so effectively absorbed into the universal Thai psyche over more than fifty years, has undoubtedly been a cornerstone of nation building and creation of popular identity. It was also outstandingly successful in justifying and facilitating a centralized administration and validating traditional prejudices and social inequalities. Its significance today is diminished in its current, somewhat archaic, guise and a modern and more sophisticated understanding of what it means to be Thai is overdue › one that meets the hopes and expectations of all Thais and meets universal standards in terms of rights and opportunities. For some, this may require a substantive paradigm shift in perspective, but the potential rewards are limitless. Reconciliation and capitalization of local knowledge and wisdom are just a start. Ultimately, the pride and confidence that comes from true recognition and respect for oneûs heritage, culture and language is the optimal path to future unity, security and a wealth of human dignity which goes to the heart of true Thainess. 54-75_mac9 5/3/12, 10:43 PM 73