The Development of The Thai Script in Terms of Language and Culture

Abstract

The development of the Thai script is a process that reflects changes in both language and culture. The Thai script has evolved continuously from the past to the present, influenced by historical, social, and technological factors. This study focuses on analyzing the development of the Thai script in two main dimensions: (1) linguistic, which includes changes in orthography, writing styles, and language use in the digital age, and (2) cultural, which reflects the role of the Thai script in social contexts, traditions, and contemporary media.
The study found that changes in the Thai script linguistically arise from the necessity to adapt to modern lifestyles and technologies, such as the use of abbreviations in social media and the transformation of font styles in contemporary design. At the same time, the Thai script continues to play an important cultural role, serving as a medium for the transmission of Thai identity through art, literature, and local traditions.
This study emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between developing the Thai script to align with modern times and preserving the cultural values and identity of Thailand.