As many have observed, the 1997 economic crisis has been a blessing in disguise. It has prompted a process of soul-searching that was noticeably absent during the high-growth years. It has created a groundswell of support for reform in the country’s political and economic institutions. Ideas such as good governance, transparency and accountability are being taken seriously and put into practice, transparency and accountability are being taken seriously and put in to practice. With basic freedoms provided by protection under the constitution; Thai civil society is becoming more active over a wider range of public interest issues, calling attention to and helping solve many problems that might otherwise be overlooked. Importantly, it has stimulated a lively debate in Thai society on what should be the most appropriate path of development for Thailand whereby less emphasis would be placed on growth rate per se with greater importance attached to the better distribution of income and protection of the environment.