Still proud to be Thai despite society's problems

Dr Noppadol Kannika, director of Abac Academic Network for Community Happiness Observation & Research (Anchor), said it carried out the survey from May 25-31 on 3,487 people in Bangkok and 14 provinces.

It found more than 60 per cent of respondents feared that Thai society may no longer be as peaceful, kind and loving as it once was.

About 52 per cent said they are not convinced Thais detest corrupt governments.

In the study, 90 per cent said despite all that, they would want to be born again as Thais. Reincarnation is part of Buddhist belief.

Asked about a possible trend in violence in the next six months, 66 per cent said they feared the chance of violence could grow.

About 72 per cent said they feared young people may adopt the nasty behaviour of some adults.

About 79 per cent said they believed violence during the protests had been provoked by opposition groups.

They also blamed people with ill-intentions, incompetent officials, the protesters themselves and sensational media coverage for sparking anger.

Asked about solutions to the political turmoil, 80 per cent said people should apply reason, not emotion to address differences.

About 75 per cent said both sides needed to take a step back to avoid grave actions.

About 72.7 per cent said the two sides should show compassion and the ability to forgive.