ABSTRACT
As we have seen at the beginning of Chapter 3, most discussed aspects of leadership in the Thai context are authority/power (amnat), influence (ittipon) and moral stature or charisma (parami Pali and Thai). By pioneering the Asoke movement, Bodhirak achieved amnat, something which would not have been granted to him by the Sakgha because of his constant criticism of its practice. An aspect of amnat is that it is depleted through use as excessive usage strains relationships.1 Bodhirak’s economic use of amnat means that he continues to retain it, thus retaining his followers. On the occasions he uses it, it is always perceived by members to be for the common good of the movement and never for his own benefit.
