Thailand: Technology and Agriculture
amidst the globalization of innovative agricultural advancement systems changing how Thais go about their daily lives and make choices regarding “western” tech
Blog by Maddie Swanson
“The Thai people have a long history of openness toward other cultures, tolerance of cultural differences, and willingness to learn from the outside world. Historically, we have shown a readiness to borrow elements from other cultures, elements that will fit our culture and help meet human needs. In our pre-modern period we adopted, adapted, and integrated a variety of cultural elements from the Indians, Chinese, Khmers, Mons, Burmans, Indonesians, and Malays—and various features of our present Thai culture clearly reflect these borrowing processes.”
— SlPPANONDHA KETUDAT, THE MIDDLE PATH FOR THE FUTURE OF
THAILAND: TECHNOLOGY IN HARMONY WITH CULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT

This article highlights the variety of chemicals used in Thailand, including the frequency of use and impacts on natural systems. Environmental pressures are increasing as existing land and water resources come under threat from rapid urbanization. Land is “being withdrawn from agricultural production, creating additional pressures for the reallocation of water now used in agriculture.”…
This article by Sippanondha Ketudat shares the predictions for the future of Thailand. Written in 1990, we can now assess some of the predictions and revisit phenomena from this previous time. This book presents the basic working philosophy of Thailand’s culture, government, processes and areas for growth. This looks specifically at impacts of globalization and…
This article by Jonathan Rigg highlights “The Role of the Environment in Limiting the Adoption of New Rice Technology in Northeastern Thailand.” This research shares how even decades ago, farmers face decisions of whether or not to use pesticides that can impact the soil and crop quality for years to come. This follows two communities…
Thailand is a country located in South East Asia. No different from its neighbors, this country has jumped on innovative, globalized technologies to increase output of goods. What does this tech look like and how does it impact the people, environment and culture?
This region is known for its beaches, tourist attractions, and Buddhist temples in addition to the rich culture and variety of foods.
Cultural shifts are occurring in Thailand, from agrarian to more tech focused. Decentralized traditional systems will fall to the innovative technologies of pesticides, drones, monitoring systems and alternative power sources.
These things all have impact.
Impact on the…
environment.
culture.
methods of farming.
community roles and needs.
acceptance of western technology and ideals.
next generation.
access to food.
entrepreneurial spirit.
healthcare.
standard of living.
development of infrastructure.
governmental regulation.
sustainable power.
international investment.
social systems & beliefs.
economic systems.
tourism.
ecosystems.
conservation.
Impact on Thailand.















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How do innovative technologies and chemicals impact Thailand’s agriculture?
For Suda Ishida – Hamline University – Media & Environmental Conflict Studies