Class:
Class has become less important in Thai society. It used to be very important during the absolute monarchy. Now it is replaced largely by financial status. The old rich and nouveau riche create their own hierarchy of classes with the poor at the bottom. The upper classes (rich) tend to secure their status through nepotism in the workplace. The poorer classes often see the only way to move up the class ladder as buying their way up. Of course, there are those who get there through qualifications and hard work, but in general, the poor are left where they have always been.
Ethnicity:
Thankfully, the Thais have few ethnic problems among their own ranks, though the population consists of several ethnic groups such as the native Thai, the Chinese, and the Muslim. The Thais are usually friendly, generous and respectful toward foreigners, especially the Westerners. However, they are fiercely proud and independent people who would go to great lengths to protect their rights, freedom, society and country, if encroached upon in any way.