ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the social and the economic context of the central Thai district. Throughout Thailand rural communities have changed so fast and to such an extent that the village studies of the 1960s and 1970s seem to be about a different country. In terms of the social and political-economic history of the locality, capitalist brickyard owners comprise a new social stratum: they are set apart from the rural majority by their position as employers and their consumption patterns. When rural industrialization takes the form of factory-based rather than home-based production, both employers and employees experience for the first time a new form of capitalist work relations. The Brick Manufacturers' Association has the ability to represent the industry's interests to the state because members hold influential leadership positions. The Association has tried to increase its ability to influence policy by supporting members' attempts to win local political office and it is consequently a key political player in the district.
