Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract/Objectives

This course examines the relationship between the state and religion in contemporary China. As the focus is on the interaction between the modern state and religion, the assigned readings do not cover scholarship on religious philosophy and theology, nor do they encompass the full historical diversity of Chinese religiosities. The course confines its discussion to three key historical junctures: the early 20th century, the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), and the religious revival of the reform and opening-up period. At each of these junctures, the course investigates why and how the state positions and governs complex and diverse religious phenomena, as well as the nature of the interactions between the state and religion. The selected readings focus on how religion is positioned and shaped under state governance at specific historical moments in contemporary China, examining the processes and consequences of institutionalization, as well as how religious practices develop complex and varied relationships with the state — encompassing suppression, resistance, and cooperation. The readings also reveal that state actors operate across different types and levels of governance, while showcasing the diversity of religious traditions, the multiple actors within them, and practices that cross religious boundaries. Through these empirical studies, the course aims to familiarize students with the key analytical frameworks for exploring the complex relationship between the state and religion in contemporary China.

Results/Contributions

This course cultivates students' ability to analyze the multiple relationships among religion, state governance, and members of society. Guided by the sustainable development indicator of "Peace, Justice, and Effective Governance" and using China as a case study, the course moves beyond the conventional framework of "an atheist communist state suppressing religion." It explores how the state utilizes religion as a mode of governance, encompassing dimensions such as the shaping and institutionalization of religion, religious practices, and the interactive dynamics among societal members. The course equips students with analytical frameworks to investigate the complex layers of state-religion relations in contemporary China. Its learning outcomes are demonstrated in the following areas:

 

[Multiple Modalities of Governance]

Echoing the sustainable development indicator of “Effective Governance” under SDG 16, the course leads students to examine three key historical junctures: the early 20th century, the founding of the PRC, and the religious revival of the reform and opening-up period. It guides students to explore how and why the state positions, shapes, and governs diverse religious phenomena, thereby deepening their understanding of state governance alongside the processes and outcomes of institutionalization.

 

[Peace, Justice, and Actors]

Echoing the sustainability indicator of "Peace and Justice," the course guides students to examine the interactive relationships among the state, religion, and various social actors from diverse perspectives. Through the readings and exploration of empirical phenomena and theoretical concepts, students come to understand that these interactive dynamics encompass not only resistance but also underlying synergy and cooperation. This cultivates an inclusive mindset when confronting complex social phenomena and deepens students' understanding of the pursuit of social justice.


In summary, this course explores the relationship between the state and religion in contemporary China. Through the perspectives of peace, justice, and effective governance, it enables students to identify and reflect upon the sustainable values embedded within these dynamics.


Keywords

China Studies, Religion–State Relations, Religious Changes, Sociology of religion,

Contact Information

古明君
mcku@mx.nthu.edu.tw