Uneasy Encounters: Christian Churches in Greater China

The book explores the complex dynamics of Christian groups in authoritarian societies in Greater China, focusing on their negotiations with the government and local culture. It uses two case studies to support a wider theory of an economic approach to religion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 27 August 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

The book delves into the intricate dynamics of the various social, political, and cultural negotiations that representatives of Christian groups undertake within authoritarian societies in Greater China, where Christianity is perceived as a foreign religious system introduced to China by colonial powers. It explores the political and social cooperation and negotiations of two distinct Christian groups in their respective and unique contexts: the open sector of the Catholic Church in the communist People's Republic of China (PRC) from 1945 to the present day, and the Presbyterian church in Taiwan in the Republic of China (ROC) during the period of martial law from 1949 to 1987. Rather than merely reinforcing the conventional "domination-resistance model of church-state relations," the book emphasizes the diverse approaches adopted by religious groups throughout the negotiation process. In the authoritative Chinese context, religious specialists face two interconnected pressures: the demands of their authoritarian rulers and the societal pressure to assimilate into the local culture.

To support a broader theory of an economic approach to religion, the book employs two case studies. The first case study focuses on the Catholic Church in the PRC, examining its interactions with the communist government from the establishment of the PRC in 1949 to the present day. It explores the challenges and opportunities that the church has faced in navigating the complex political and social landscape of China, including the persecution of Christians and the restrictions on religious freedom. The second case study examines the Presbyterian church in Taiwan, focusing on its interactions with the martial law regime and the challenges it faced in maintaining its identity and mission during a period of political instability and social unrest.

Through these case studies, the book sheds light on the strategies and tactics that Christian groups employ to navigate the challenges of living in authoritarian societies. It highlights the importance of collaboration and negotiation in building relationships with government officials and other stakeholders, as well as the need for religious groups to adapt to changing circumstances and find creative solutions to their challenges. The book also raises important questions about the role of religion in society and the challenges that authoritarian regimes face in accommodating religious diversity and freedom.

In conclusion, the book provides a valuable contribution to the study of church-state relations in authoritarian societies, offering a nuanced and comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of religious negotiations in Greater China. It sheds light on the strategies and tactics employed by Christian groups to navigate the complex political and social landscape, and raises important questions about the role of religion in society and the challenges that authoritarian regimes face in accommodating religious diversity and freedom.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811918926
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022