‘Many of the new generation do not believe in Buddhism because of some monks’ inappropriate conduct.”
“I am an atheist. Can I change the religion on my identification card to be ‘no religion’?”
These discussions are seen widely across social media as more and more young people express doubt about religion, especially Buddhism, which is the largest faith in Thailand.
Over the past months, reports of monks behaving badly have soured young people towards the faith. Many monastic members — including well-known and high-ranking monks — have drawn criticism after being caught engaging in sexual conduct, drinking alcohol and owning luxurious material possessions. Because of this, young people say they have lost faith in Buddhism, preferring instead to be irreligious.
In 2012, a study by the US-based Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion and Public Life…
