Required reading for Thai politicians

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 02, 2012

In this time of degradation, when the country is directionless, some books to educate our politicians to work toward making a better Thailand are a good idea.

 

The book by former US president John F Kennedy, “Profiles in Courage”, is one to recommend.
Kennedy wrote this book while he was a junior senator from the state of Massachusetts. The book, written in 1955, became an instant classic, and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize.
The book tells the stories of a number of exemplary American politicians who sacrificed themselves and risked their careers in the pursuit of good and long-term future for their country. 
An example: the story of former President John Quincy Adams (1825-1829), who served a single term and lost his chance to be re-elected because of his unwavering opposition to slavery – this despite his many outstanding achievements. There are many more such stories in the book.
Such books as this should be translated into Thai to attract good people into politics; as well as screen out the many bad elements that we have. 
Awareness is not enough. Wisdom is.
Vint Chavala
Lamphun