One important question raised by anthropologists, concerning the economic
development, is that belief in Buddhism is a hindrance or a favor toward economic
development. Most agree that Buddhism is neutral to economic development.1
It does
not motivate people to the accumulation of wealth. One fate is determined by one’s own
karma. One way to improve one’s karma is through merit making. One works not only
to live but also to be able to make merit. Part of the income of poor farmers will be spent
on making merit, particularly donating to the wat. Wealth accumulation is not for
economic investment only but it has always been invested in religious activities.
Accordingly, it is not profit seeking that drives people to work. People make merit by
donating money to the wat in the hope that one’s position in society will become better, if
not in this life perhaps the next life.