AI as a Tool for Academic Writing: Opportunities and Challenges

AI in Academic Writing: Challenges and Opportunities

By Janpha Thadphoothon
We academics are constantly debating—and, let's be honest, often grumbling about—AI's impact on our jobs. It's a topic that seems to permeate every conversation.

As an academic myself, I too have been pondering upon the road ahead - and realize that it's not gonna be a smooth one. In my opinion, artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed academic writing in ways we never imagined just a decade ago. The rise of AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Grammarly or Trinka has made writing easier, faster, and, in some cases, more effective. Indeed, things are moving fast. perhaps too fast.

I know you would agree with me that students, researchers, and even professors now rely on AI for various aspects of their writing process, from generating ideas to proofreading and citation management. Nevertheless, it is my belief that while AI brings undeniable strengths to academic writing, it also comes with significant weaknesses that we cannot ignore.

Strengths of AI in Academic Writing

1. Enhanced Productivity

As we know, academic writing is often a time-consuming process that requires deep research, critical thinking, and precise articulation. AI tools can accelerate this process by generating content, summarizing research papers, and even offering structured outlines. People say that AI-powered tools have significantly reduced the time it takes to produce a well-written document. For instance, researchers can now generate literature reviews within minutes using AI-based platforms like Elicit or Semantic Scholar. I like the idea of using AI to boost productivity without compromising quality.

2. Improved Grammar and Clarity

I must admit that one of the best things about AI in academic writing is its ability to enhance grammar, spelling, and sentence clarity. Tools like Grammarly and Trinka ensure that writing is grammatically sound and stylistically appropriate for academic settings. Experts say that these tools help non-native English speakers express their ideas more effectively by suggesting improvements in phrasing and tone. It is well known that poor grammar can undermine the credibility of an academic paper, so having AI assistance in this area is invaluable.

3. Assistance with Citation and Referencing

I somehow think that citation is one of the most tedious aspects of academic writing. What we all know and agree upon is that referencing mistakes can lead to accusations of plagiarism or rejection of research papers. AI-powered reference managers like Zotero, Mendeley, and EndNote automatically generate citations in the correct format, saving researchers a great deal of time. The news has it that AI tools can even cross-check sources and suggest relevant literature, making the research process more efficient.

4. Overcoming Writer’s Block

They say that writer’s block is a common struggle for academic writers, and AI can help overcome it by providing writing prompts and suggestions. I am not an expert, but I have read somewhere that AI-generated prompts can help researchers formulate arguments and structure their papers more effectively. When faced with a blank page, having AI-generated content as a starting point can be a game-changer.

5. Language Translation and Paraphrasing

My conviction is that AI is a great help for international researchers who need assistance in translating their work into English or other academic languages. Tools like DeepL and QuillBot can assist with paraphrasing and translation, ensuring that the intended meaning is preserved while improving readability. This is particularly beneficial for scholars who publish in international journals.

Weaknesses of AI in Academic Writing

Don't be fooled, AI's benefits are real, but so are its drawbacks. If you're not careful, you can easily fall into the 'AI trap.'

1. Lack of Critical Thinking and Originality

I am sure you would agree with me that AI lacks true critical thinking and originality. While it can generate well-structured content, it does not possess human-like reasoning or the ability to develop novel ideas. AI models are trained on existing data, which means they often reproduce existing knowledge rather than contribute new insights. Academic writing, however, demands originality and intellectual depth that AI cannot fully provide.

2. Risk of Plagiarism

It is well known that plagiarism is a serious issue in academia, and AI-generated content sometimes raises concerns in this area. I think that because AI tools rely on massive datasets to generate text, they may inadvertently produce content that closely resembles existing work. People say that using AI-generated text without proper modifications can result in unintentional plagiarism, which can have serious academic consequences.

3. Over-Reliance on AI

I somehow think that excessive reliance on AI in academic writing can weaken a researcher’s critical thinking and writing skills. If students and scholars depend too much on AI-generated content, they may lose their ability to structure arguments and develop ideas independently. Experts say that while AI is a useful assistant, it should never replace human intellect in academic work.

4. Inaccuracy and Misinformation

As we know, AI is not always accurate. AI has to be curated by humans. The news has it that AI-generated text can sometimes contain factual errors or outdated information. Unlike human researchers who verify sources and critically evaluate data, AI simply generates content based on patterns in the data it has been trained on. This means that researchers must always fact-check AI-generated content before including it in their work.

5. Ethical and Academic Integrity Concerns

It is my personal belief that AI raises ethical concerns in academic writing. Universities and academic institutions are still debating the acceptability of AI-assisted writing. I am not sure, but some institutions might even consider AI-generated content as a form of academic dishonesty if it is not properly disclosed. The challenge is finding a balance between using AI as a tool and maintaining academic integrity.

I like the idea of using AI to support academic writing, but I must admit that it should be used with caution. AI undoubtedly offers strengths such as increased productivity, improved grammar, and assistance with citations. However, its weaknesses—particularly the lack of critical thinking, potential for plagiarism, and ethical concerns—cannot be ignored. In my opinion, AI should be seen as a complementary tool rather than a replacement for human intellect in academic writing. What we all know and agree upon is that responsible use of AI in academia requires awareness, critical judgment, and a commitment to maintaining academic integrity.

I guess it is safe to say that AI is here to stay, and it will continue to evolve. Nevertheless, it is my belief that academic writers should always remain in control of their work, using AI as a tool rather than allowing it to dictate their ideas. I am sure you would agree with me that, at the end of the day, true academic excellence comes from human curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.

Did COVID-19 originate from a lab leak?

Did COVID-19 originate from a lab leak?

The idea of writing about the origin came from the speech by the US vice president - JD Vance.

 "the idea that [COVID-19] had likely leaked from a laboratory in China, our own government encouraged private companies to silence people who dared to utter what turned out to be an obvious truth."

In May 2021, the Economic Times News said:

British intelligence believes COVID-19 lab leak theory 'feasible': Report

[Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/british-intelligence-believes-covid-19-lab-leak-theory-feasible-report/articleshow/83094191.cms?from=mdr]

People around the world want to know the origin of Covid-19 outbreak. One theory is the lab-leak theory - that is the virus is man-made and it was leaked from the lab.
In the past it was forbidden to say this on social media . Now, in B=Facebook it is possible:

Facebook lifts ban on posts claiming Covid-19 was man-made [This article is more than 3 years old]

Social network says policy comes ‘in light of ongoing investigations into the origin’ of virus.

Let's begin with this news report:

Five years after the first COVID-19 deaths were reported in Wuhan, China, a new assessment by the CIA concludes the virus was “more likely” to have leaked from a Chinese laboratory than spread naturally from animals to humans in a nearby wet market..

A laboratory on the campus of the Wuhan Institute of Virology in Wuhan in China's central Hubei province in May 2020. Focus has turned back to the facility as a possible origin of the coronavirus pandemic.
Photo credit: https://www.npr.org/2021/05/27/1000780650/every-possible-explanation-for-covid-19-should-be-investigated-expert-says

And from CBS news:

CIA now says COVID most likely originated from a lab leak but has "low confidence" in its assessment

[Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/cia-covid-likely-originated-lab-low-confidence-assessment/]

Aljazeera news reports that:

The CIA has announced that it believes the COVID-19 pandemic “more likely” originated from a laboratory leak than a natural event.

[Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/27/cia-says-more-likely-covid-19-escaped-from-a-lab]

Similarly, NBC News says that:

CIA shifts assessment on Covid origins, saying lab leak likely caused outbreak

The agency said that it has “low confidence” in its judgment and that it would continue evaluating new intelligence reporting.

[Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/cia-shifts-assessment-covid-origins-saying-lab-leak-likely-caused-outb-rcna189284]

This is from the Guardian dated Sunday 26 Feb 2023:

The virus that drove the Covid-19 pandemic most likely emerged from a laboratory leak but not as part of a weapons program, according to an updated and classified 2021 US energy department study provided to the White House and senior American lawmakers, the Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday.

This is from ANI:

CIA assesses COVID-19 likely originated from lab leak in China, not natural sources

Read more At:  https://www.aninews.in/news/world/us/cia-assesses-covid-19-likely-originated-from-lab-leak-in-china-not-natural-sources20250127183052/

This one is from WSJ:

CIA Now Favors Lab Leak Theory on Origins of Covid-19

Agency says it had ‘low confidence’ in its finding, but this is further than it has ever gone in pinpointing the origin of a virus that killed millions worldwide

Source: https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/cia-now-favors-lab-leak-theory-on-origins-of-covid-19-eff4e67c

The fact is that millions died. Several millions were affected by the pandemic. Even today, people are suffering from this disease. 

I'm not an expert in this field. I think there are some who know. I will leave it to you to make your own judgement after analyzing sources of information.

Unity is Strength

 
Unity is Strength

I am sure you would agree with me that in today’s world, collaboration and unity are more important than ever. As we know, human civilization has progressed not just through individual brilliance but through collective efforts. The Sanskrit adage Sanghe Shakti Kalau Yuge—which translates to Strength in Union in Kaliyuga—perfectly encapsulates this idea. This phrase originates from Hindu scriptures, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective effort in the age of Kaliyuga. I think this wisdom is particularly relevant today, especially in professional and academic communities such as English Language Teacher Associations (ELTAs).

It is well known that organizations hold the key to strength in modern times. In my opinion, professional associations like ELTAs play a crucial role in bringing teachers together to share knowledge, innovate, and support one another. They say that an individual can go fast, but a group can go far. This rings true in the context of educational and professional development.

The news has it that language teacher associations have been around since the 1960s, with the purpose of fostering collaboration among educators. People say that these associations have helped educators grow by providing platforms for networking and resource sharing. Experts say that when teachers unite, they can influence policies, advocate for better educational standards, and create a strong support system for professional development.

Nevertheless, it is my belief that these organizations have not always received the recognition they deserve. For many years, despite their growing influence, ELTAs remained largely outside the mainstream research discourse. It was only after publications such as the ELT Journal’s special issue in 2016 and Elsheikh et al.’s 2018 anthology that they began to receive serious academic attention. I like the idea of institutions recognizing the power of collaboration and the impact of collective professional development.

I must admit that I admire the work of Professor Dr. Laxman Gnawali in this field. As someone who has dedicated his career to fostering teacher education and professional development, his leadership in setting up graduate programs and promoting ELTAs has been remarkable. I am not sure, but I have read somewhere that strong leadership in such associations can make a significant difference in shaping the future of education.

What we all know and agree upon is that disorganization has historically led to defeat. If we look at history, disunity has often been the cause of downfall for many societies. My conviction is that in the age of AI and rapid globalization, professionals—including educators—must come together to adapt, learn, and support one another.

I somehow think that ELTAs are a modern manifestation of the ancient wisdom in Sanghe Shakti Kalau Yuge. Just as unity has historically helped communities thrive, today, teacher associations serve as pillars of strength for educators worldwide. I know you would agree with me that in an ever-changing world, unity remains a powerful tool for progress.

In conclusion, I guess it is safe to say that Unity is Strength is more than just a phrase; it is a principle that has guided human progress for centuries. From ancient wisdom to modern professional networks, the power of working together remains undeniable. My hope is that we continue to embrace this spirit of collaboration, learning from the past and building a stronger future for all.

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and My Japanese

 

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and My Japanese

Researched by Janpha Thadphoothon

I know a little Japanese and took a few Japanese courses many years ago. However, I have forgotten most of what I learned. I believe I reached the 3rd level of the Japanese proficiency test (Noryoku Shiken). I would like to refresh my Japanese skills and knowledge through some review and research—both for my own benefit and perhaps to help others learning the language. Please note that the text below is partially AI-assisted.

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or 日本語能力試験（JLPT）is a standardized test that assesses non-native speakers' proficiency in Japanese. It is divided into five levels (N5 to N1), with N5 being the easiest and N1 being the most difficult. [試験は5つのレベル（N5からN1）に分かれており、N5が最も簡単で、N1が最も難しいです。] The test evaluates reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar skills but does not include a speaking component.

1. JLPT Levels and Competencies

JLPT Level	Proficiency Level	Expected Skills
N5 (Beginner)	Basic understanding of simple phrases and daily expressions	Can read hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji. Can understand short sentences about familiar topics.
N4 (Elementary)	Basic conversational skills in daily life	Can read and understand basic texts. Can understand slow, clear spoken Japanese.
N3 (Intermediate)	Able to understand everyday conversations and some news reports	Can read general articles and grasp important points. Can understand spoken conversations at normal speed.
N2 (Upper-Intermediate)	Comfortable with work-related and academic Japanese	Can read complex texts. Can comprehend TV programs and discussions.
N1 (Advanced)	Fluent in professional and academic Japanese	Can read editorials, literary works, and academic texts. Can understand complex spoken discourse.

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2. JLPT Test Structure and Question Types

Each level consists of different sections:

(1) Vocabulary & Grammar Section

✅ Example (N5 - Basic Vocabulary)
📌 What is the correct reading for this kanji?
日曜日
(A) にちようび (B) げつようび (C) きんようび

✅ Example (N2 - Complex Grammar)
📌 Choose the best phrase to complete the sentence:
彼は会議に（　　）ながら、スマホを見ていた。
(A) 参加する (B) 参加し (C) 参加している

📌 Rubric (N2 Grammar Scoring Criteria)

Criteria	Score	Description
Correct Usage	5	Uses correct verb form and structure
Partially Correct	3	Some errors but meaning is understandable
Incorrect	0	Incorrect word choice or grammar

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(2) Reading Comprehension Section

✅ Example (N3 - Mid-Level Reading)
📌 Read the passage and answer the question:

「最近はネットショッピングをする人が増えています。特に若い人は買い物に行く時間がないため、ネットで買うことが多いです。」

Q: Why do young people prefer online shopping?
(A) They do not like physical stores.
(B) They have no time to go shopping.
(C) They do not trust online stores.

📌 Rubric (N3 Reading Comprehension Scoring)

Criteria	Score	Description
Correct Answer	5	Clear understanding of the passage
Partially Correct	3	Some understanding but slightly off-topic
Incorrect	0	Incorrect or no response

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(3) Listening Section

✅ Example (N1 - Advanced Listening)
📌 Listen to the dialogue and answer the question:

👂 (Audio: A business meeting discussing market expansion)
Q: What is the main point of the speaker’s argument?
(A) The company should enter a new market.
(B) The company should focus on existing customers.
(C) The company should change its marketing strategy.

📌 Rubric (N1 Listening Scoring Criteria)

Criteria	Score	Description
Full Comprehension	5	Understands key points and details
Partial Understanding	3	Misses some information but gets general idea
Incorrect Answer	0	Misinterprets or does not answer correctly

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3. Scoring and Passing Criteria

Each level has a total score of 180 points. To pass, you must meet both the total score requirement and the sectional minimum score.

JLPT Level	Total Passing Score	Minimum Score Per Section
N5	80/180	19/60
N4	90/180	19/60
N3	95/180	19/60
N2	90/180	19/60
N1	100/180	19/60

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4. Key Takeaways for JLPT Test-Takers

1. Focus on vocabulary and kanji – Higher levels require a large vocabulary.
2. Practice listening regularly – JLPT does not allow note-taking during listening tests.
3. Master reading speed – Higher levels require quick comprehension of complex texts.
4. Familiarize yourself with test formats – The more you practice with past JLPT papers, the better your performance.

Tabula Rasa

 Tabula Rasa

By Janpha Thadphoothon

I first heard the term Tabula Rasa when I was a postgraduate student in Canberra, Australia. Back then, I was exploring ways to develop Thai students' critical thinking skills along with their English language proficiency. Both remain daunting challenges for Thai people even today. It is well known that fostering critical thinking is not an easy task, and integrating it with language learning makes it even more complex. Nevertheless, it is my belief that these two skills are essential for the modern world, where information is abundant but wisdom is scarce.

The concept of Tabula Rasa is often defined as "the mind in its original, uninformed state, before any learning begins." The literal meaning of this Latin phrase is a writing tablet scraped clean of any previous inscriptions. This suggests that a young pupil's mind is open and can be shaped as the teacher wishes. I am sure you would agree with me that this idea is quite powerful, especially when we consider the role of education in shaping young minds.

As we know, the idea of Tabula Rasa has deep roots in philosophy and psychology. The English philosopher John Locke popularized the concept in the 17th century, arguing that the human mind at birth is a blank slate, and all knowledge comes from experience. Locke’s An Essay Concerning Human Understanding laid the foundation for empiricism, which emphasizes that knowledge is acquired through sensory experience.

However, this notion has been contested by many thinkers. René Descartes, for instance, had a contrasting view. He believed that humans are born with innate ideas and knowledge, rather than acquiring everything solely through experience. Descartes, a rationalist, emphasized the role of reason over sensory perception. The philosophical debate between rationalists and empiricists continues to this day.

I must admit that I find both perspectives intriguing. On the one hand, empiricism suggests that we are shaped entirely by our environment, which means education and experiences are of utmost importance. On the other hand, rationalists argue that certain cognitive structures are already present in the human mind from birth, allowing for reasoning and understanding beyond sensory input. Who is right? I do not know. People say that the truth might lie somewhere in between.

Interestingly, some Buddhist beliefs challenge the Tabula Rasa notion. They say that newborn babies may recall past lives, implying that their minds are not entirely empty. If this is true, then the idea that we start as blank slates would not hold. My conviction is that this is a fascinating area of inquiry, and it reminds us that different cultures and traditions offer diverse perspectives on human nature.

As a teacher, I sometimes feel that students are not completely without prior knowledge, perceptions, and beliefs. Their families, cultures, and societies have shaped their thinking long before they enter a classroom. What we all know and agree upon is that no one learns in isolation. Even before formal education begins, children absorb knowledge from their surroundings. This makes me wonder—can we truly call their minds blank slates?

I like the idea of Tabula Rasa in the sense that it emphasizes the power of learning and personal growth. It suggests that individuals are not bound by their circumstances at birth but have the potential to acquire knowledge and develop new skills. Nevertheless, it is my belief that we must also acknowledge the influences of genetics, culture, and past experiences in shaping who we are.

In my opinion, education should strike a balance between these two perspectives. We should recognize that students come into the classroom with prior knowledge, yet they also possess the ability to learn and change. The news has it that modern neuroscience supports this idea, indicating that while the brain is highly adaptable, it is not entirely a blank slate at birth.

Experts say that learning is a complex interaction between nature and nurture. While experiences play a crucial role in shaping intelligence and skills, there are also innate cognitive abilities that help us process information. I am not an expert, but I have read somewhere that even newborns show certain reflexes and preferences, suggesting that not everything is learned from scratch.

I guess it is safe to say that Tabula Rasa is a useful metaphor, but not an absolute truth. It serves as a reminder that education has the power to shape individuals, yet we must also consider the existing beliefs and knowledge students bring with them. As teachers, we should strive to nurture curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and help students build upon what they already know.

I cannot help but think about deep neural networks and machine learning (AI). It seems that, like Geoffrey Hinton says, there is no universal grammar (UG). The mind of the machine is a blank slate or Tabula Rasa. Chomsky may disagree. The debate about whether language learning is based on innate structures or purely learned from data continues, now extending beyond human minds to artificial intelligence. People say that AI learns through massive data inputs and pattern recognition, much like empiricism suggests. But does that mean it truly understands language, or is it just mimicking human speech? I somehow think this is an open question.

Tabula Rasa remains a compelling idea that continues to spark debate. I somehow think that both empiricists and rationalists have valid points, and the truth likely lies somewhere in between. While I do not claim to have all the answers, I find it fascinating to reflect on how knowledge is acquired and how education influences our perceptions of the world. I know you would agree with me that learning is a lifelong journey, and whether we start as blank slates or not, what truly matters is our willingness to keep growing and evolving.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.

Self-reliance in learning English

 Self-reliance in Learning English

By Janpha Thadphoothon

I wrote this blog post on Makha Bucha Day, a Buddhist holiday observed in Thailand as a national holiday.  I believe it is meaningful to relate the teachings of the Great Teacher, Lord Buddha, to the process of learning— including learning English as a foreign language.  

The Buddha taught us the importance of self-reliance and personal effort. He once said, "Attā hi attano nātho," which means, "You yourself are your own refuge." This principle reminds us that, ultimately, our progress depends on our own dedication and perseverance.

In this blog post, I, therefore, discuss the importance of self-reliance in learning, even in an age of technological advancement. Ultimately, it is up to you to understand and retain words and concepts.

Self-reliance in learning English means taking charge of your own language development rather than relying too heavily on teachers, classes, or structured programs. It involves actively seeking opportunities to improve your skills through self-study, practice, and real-world application.

One aspect of being self-reliance is having the ability to teach oneself. Self-taught ability is a key aspect of self-reliance in learning. Being self-taught means having the skills and mindset to learn independently, without needing constant guidance from teachers or formal education.

In the context of self-reliance in learning English, self-taught ability includes:

- Finding and using resources (books, online courses, AI tools, podcasts, etc.)

- Practicing actively (speaking, writing, reading, and listening without waiting for instruction)

- Problem-solving (figuring out grammar rules, pronunciation, and vocabulary on your own)

- Developing learning strategies (such as note-taking, summarizing, and repetition techniques)

Essentially, a self-reliant learner is also a self-taught learner. 

I think that in the age of knowledge-sharing and Generative AI, the need for learners to be self-reliant is greater than ever. With so much information available at our fingertips, it is no longer enough to simply wait for teachers to guide us.

As we know, AI tools can provide instant answers, suggest better ways to phrase sentences, and even generate essays. But does that mean we can rely on AI entirely? Common sense tells us that while AI can be a helpful assistant, it cannot replace the effort, critical thinking, and self-discipline needed to truly learn and internalize new knowledge.

I am sure you would agree with me that the most successful learners are those who take charge of their own learning. They ask questions, seek out resources, and practice consistently rather than passively consuming information. AI can provide guidance, but it is up to us to process, apply, and retain what we learn.

What I believe is this: self-reliance in learning is not about rejecting technology, but about using it wisely. It means knowing how to filter information, verify sources, and think critically rather than blindly accepting whatever AI generates.

They say that "knowledge is power," but in today’s world, I would argue that the ability to learn independently is even more powerful. With AI and unlimited access to knowledge, those who develop self-reliance will not just keep up—they will thrive.

So, on this auspicious day—the day of the great gathering of the Buddha’s disciples—we should recognize that the Great Teacher is revered not only for his compassion and wisdom but also for his dedication to guiding his followers toward independent thinking and freedom of the mind.

Kindness of Strangers

Kindness of Strangers

Janpha Thadphoothon

I am writing this blog post on a very simple and mundane, yet one of the most sought-after human qualities in the history of human civilization. It may sound as though I am a moralist, and that this is a moral lesson. I must admit that I am writing this to save myself and those I care about from becoming too self-centered and from losing compassion toward our neighbors or even strangers.

Recently, there have been a few news stories that have shaken my psyche regarding the sanity of humankind. The news has it that the former U.S. president, Donald Trump, cut international aid and cooperation, a decision that might have affected millions of people in need. "How could you do it?" I keep asking myself. It is my personal belief that such actions reflect a deep crisis in human values.

Another example is what has been happening along the Thai borders. The Thai authorities, citing security reasons, cut off electricity, Internet access, and gas supplies, affecting millions—both Thais and ethnic minorities living in the border areas. I am sure you would agree with me that decisions like these, while perhaps justified on certain grounds, should be handled with compassion and a sense of responsibility toward those who will suffer as a result.

As we know, every religion teaches us to be kind, helpful, and to look after the weak. The Buddha and Jesus Christ preached similar doctrines—that we should be kind toward others, even when they are strangers. What we all know and agree upon is that kindness is a fundamental human value that holds societies together. But are we practicing it? That is the real question.

I like the idea of a world where people extend kindness to those in need, not just within their own families or communities but to complete strangers. They say that one small act of kindness can create a ripple effect, influencing people far beyond what we can imagine. I somehow think that in our fast-paced, self-centered world, we often forget this simple yet powerful truth.

Experts say that societies thrive when there is a culture of generosity and mutual assistance. I am not an expert, but I have read somewhere that communities with strong social bonds and collective compassion tend to have lower crime rates, greater happiness, and higher levels of trust among their people. It is well known that acts of kindness not only benefit the receiver but also bring a deep sense of fulfillment to the giver.

I know you would agree with me that kindness is not just an individual trait but a societal necessity. When governments and institutions neglect this aspect, society as a whole suffers. The decisions of world leaders impact millions, and while policies and national interests must be considered, they should never come at the cost of human dignity and compassion.

History has it that in times of crisis, it is often ordinary people who step up to show kindness. We have seen countless examples—strangers helping each other during natural disasters, people opening their homes to refugees, and volunteers providing aid in conflict zones. These acts restore our faith in humanity. My conviction is that even when political decisions seem heartless, individuals can still make a difference.

I think the problem lies in the increasing focus on self-interest. People say that we live in a highly individualistic era, where personal success often overshadows collective well-being. Nevertheless, it is my belief that true success lies in the ability to uplift others. I guess it is easy to ignore suffering when it does not affect us directly, but that does not mean it ceases to exist.

In my opinion, we should cultivate a culture of kindness, starting with small everyday actions. A smile, a helping hand, or simply being there for someone in distress can make a world of difference. I somehow think that schools should emphasize teaching empathy as much as they teach academic subjects. After all, what good is intelligence without compassion?

I must admit that I, too, sometimes become so absorbed in my own worries that I forget to extend kindness to others. But when I do, I feel a profound sense of purpose. They say that happiness is not found in material possessions but in meaningful connections with others. I like the idea of a world where kindness is the norm rather than the exception.

What we all know and agree upon is that life is unpredictable. One day, we may be the ones in need of a stranger’s kindness. My conviction is that if we make kindness a habit, it will come back to us when we least expect it. As we know, the world is a better place when we choose to be kind.

if anything, I, like many others, call for a human-kindness approach to world problems. In policy-making, in daily interactions, and in the way we see each other, let us choose kindness. I am sure you would agree with me that in the end, it is kindness—not power, wealth, or status—that defines our humanity.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.

Trumps' Border Issues and Thailand's Border Challenges

Trumps' Border Issues and Thailand's Border Challenges

By Janpha Thadphoothon

I wrote this blog as a concerned citizen of Thailand. I am well aware that this topic is sensitive and difficult to wrap one's head around. For a long time, I have been expecting someone else—an expert or an authority—to address these issues comprehensively. I have found a few discussions, but they do not quite provide the perspective I am looking for.

It is well known that borders define a nation's sovereignty, security, and stability. Both the United States and Thailand are facing significant border-related challenges, albeit in different contexts. In my opinion, it is interesting to compare the two situations—Trump’s border policies and Thailand’s ongoing struggles with its borders.

As we know, the U.S.-Mexico border has been a contentious issue in American politics, particularly under Trump’s administration. His approach to immigration was marked by strict border control measures, the construction of physical barriers, and an emphasis on national security. The news has it that his administration prioritized border security as a means to prevent illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and human smuggling.

I have never been to the U.S. or Mexico, but I have visited some of Thailand's neighboring countries. The civil war in Myanmar has brought immense suffering to its people. Interestingly, Myanmar's national anthem emphasizes that their land must never be given away or divided. Since gaining independence after World War II, the Myanmar government has struggled with the challenge of unifying the country.

On the other hand, Thailand is in trouble dealing with issues across its borders, particularly with neighboring Myanmar. What we all know and agree upon is that the rise of scam operations based in Myanmar and other neighboring countries has been alarming. These transnational criminal networks exploit Thailand’s porous borders, causing significant economic and social harm. I must admit that this issue is far more complex than it seems, involving corruption, weak law enforcement, and geopolitical tensions.

One of the most troubling developments is the rise of call center scams operating from across the borders, especially in Myanmar and Cambodia. These criminal syndicates have preyed upon countless Thai citizens, tricking them into financial ruin. I am sure you would agree with me that this is a national crisis that demands urgent action. Many young Thais have been lured into these scam operations, forced into modern-day slavery, or even trafficked under false promises of lucrative employment.

Furthermore, Thailand is currently sheltering almost a million displaced persons from Myanmar’s minority states. While this humanitarian effort is commendable, it also presents significant challenges in terms of border security, resource allocation, and social integration. The longer this crisis persists, the more Thailand must find sustainable solutions that balance compassion with national interests.

Additionally, the influx of Chinese tourists and China’s increasing influence in Thailand raise concerns about sovereignty and national security. My conviction is that while economic ties with China have benefited Thailand, they also pose challenges. Some people say that Chinese businesses and investors are gradually altering the economic landscape, sometimes at the expense of local businesses and communities. I am not sure, but I have read somewhere that China’s strategic interests in Thailand, including infrastructure projects and economic corridors, may have deeper implications for the country’s long-term autonomy.

Thailand relies heavily—perhaps too much—on income from international tourists, especially from China. This dependency means that when bad things happen to Chinese tourists, Thailand is forced to address these issues promptly (sometimes, cheating and crime were committed among non-Thai citizens). Crimes such as human trafficking, drug trafficking, and illegal casinos have become pressing concerns, partly due to their connection with foreign tourists and international criminal networks. The government is often compelled to take action to protect the country's image, sometimes at the cost of long-term sustainable policies.

There are few days when we do not hear about crimes committed by foreigners in Thailand. From fraud schemes to violent crimes, these incidents erode public trust in Thailand’s ability to manage its borders effectively. My conviction is that Thailand needs stronger regulations and stricter enforcement to ensure that its open-door policy does not lead to widespread exploitation.

Experts say that border management is not merely about security—it is about governance, diplomacy, and economic strategy. In my opinion, Thailand must strengthen its border control mechanisms while ensuring that economic and political interests are balanced. I somehow think that cooperation with neighboring countries is crucial, but so is internal reform to address corruption and inefficiency in border management.

Nevertheless, it is my belief that Thailand must remain vigilant in protecting its national interests. The lessons from Trump’s border policies may offer some insights, but Thailand’s situation requires a more nuanced and locally adapted approach.

To be fair, Thailand has been working hard and earnestly to address and deal with border issues, as well as cyber and international crime challenges. It is only natural that foreign governments would seek to intervene as stakeholders—China being a prime example. This must be at the top of Thailand's national agenda. The changes and challenges of new geopolitical issues, particularly the US-China rivalry, have placed Thailand in a narrower lane to tread. My conviction is that Thailand must remain neutral in its foreign policy. Sovereignty must certainly take precedence over economic gains from exports and tourism, for example.

I know you would agree with me that Thailand’s border issues are not just about physical security—they are about the country’s future. The government must take decisive actions to ensure that its borders are not exploited by external forces.

Call me old-fashioned, but I was born and raised to take pride in Thailand's rich cultural heritage. We Thais have never been colonized, and the word "Thai" itself means "free." We are a sovereign nation and a people who cherish our independence.

I like the idea of a Thailand that is both open and secure—welcoming but not vulnerable. Unlike President Trump’s approach in the U.S., simply closing our borders is not an option. We must uphold our policy of non-alignment, but navigating this path in the modern world is far from easy.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.