Most Asian cultures have a stratified and hierarchal society. Those of the lower class make ties with those of the upper class as this connection offers access to the necessities of life that they would otherwise be unable to obtain such as food, housing, clothing, and education. These ties are unseen and are often unexplainable, even to those who participat in such relationships. One important aspect is known as patron-client relationship. These ties are reciprocal. Those of the lower class having something of value to the patron who then gets what he needs. As with any similar situation, those of the upper levels often tend to take advantage of the lower classes, and corruption tends to be quite common.
Modernization, currently, is weakening the patron-client relationship as people are able to gain access to needed items through private independent organizations. Theses sevices are now open to people's of all social classes, not just the elites.
Since most Asian cultures, tend to be patriarchal, it would seem that women do not partipate in patron-client relationships, except maybe in the cities with prostitutes who offer sex for needed goods.
Patron-client relationships are important in southeasian countries, especially Thailand, though they have dwindled over the past two decades or so. Patrons are expected to be compassionate and nice; they are also expected to compliment, offer security and be pragmatic towards their clients. Kren jai, the notion of not wanting to embarass or annoy others, is an important tradition in Thailand. Thais often find other means of acquring needed goods without the patron.
There is leeway in Thai patron-client relationships. Thais do not go for individuality; they tend to conform when in the presence of those who are superior to them.
Clark, Neher. Southeast Asia: Crossroads of the World. Illinois: Northern Illinois University. 2000, 59-62.
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Greg, might I add the patron-client relationship is more prevalent with women acting as the patron in the urban setting. This due to increasing education for women,and western corporate culture which promotes men and women more equal than Southeast Asia. In the villages with the woman taking a more traditional role, the patron-client relationship is more traditional. There will be a day when we see a prime minister in the region, and perhaps a queen on the throne.
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