Pavin Chachavalpongpun

A Plastic Nation: The Curse of Thainess in Thai-Burmese Relations
Lanham: University Press of American, 2005.

The author elucidates the changing faces of Thai nationalism according to the changing political landscapes. When Thailand needed to promote democracy, Thai nationalism was made a pro-democracy agent. When Thailand fell under despotism, nationalism was turned into a ruthless instrument curbing different views. This book not only investigates the concept of Thainess and its connection with nationalism, but also discusses the impact on Thailand’s relations with Burma/ Myanmar.