The Formation of Regional Religious Systems in Greater China

The rise of Spatial Humanities has led to a digital revolution in Chinese studies, particularly in the study of religion. This book explores the formation of Regional Religious Systems (RRS) in Greater China in unprecedented scope and depth, addressing quantitatively the enduring historical and contemporary issues of China's regionalism and spatially variegated cultural and religious landscape. It covers topics such as theoretical discussions, case studies, the formation of local cults and pilgrimage networks, and the spread of religious networks to overseas Chinese communities and Tibet. It also considers the challenges of researching with spatial data for humanities and social science research.

Format: Hardback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 22 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The emergence of Spatial Humanities has ignited a transformative digital revolution in the realm of Chinese studies, particularly in the study of religion. Drawing upon extensive data compilation and meticulous analysis of religious sites spanning decades, this groundbreaking work delves into the intricate formation of Regional Religious Systems (RRS) across Greater China in unprecedented breadth and depth. It addresses quantitatively the enduring historical and contemporary challenges of China's deep-rooted regionalism and spatially diverse cultural and religious landscape.

A diverse array of topics are explored within the pages of this book: theoretical discussions on the concept of RRS; in-depth case studies of regional and local religious institutions; the emergence and proliferation of local cults and pilgrimage networks; and the expansion of religious networks to overseas Chinese communities and the Bon religion in Tibet. Moreover, the book grapples with the longstanding complexities of researching with spatial data in the humanities and social sciences, encompassing tasks such as data collection, integration, spatial analysis, and map creation.

This invaluable resource will captivate students and scholars alike in the fields of Religious Studies, Cultural Studies, Chinese Studies, Digital Humanities, Human Geography, and Sociology. Its insights shed light on the complex interplay between space, religion, and society in China, offering a fresh perspective on the rich tapestry of this ancient civilization.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032103358