Religion and State in China

To explore the perennial question of the relation between politics and religion, we will examine the long, rich history of this issue in China. How did the imperial state draw on religion for legitimacy and set itself up as the arbiter of religious life? How did religious communities respond? We will consult primary sources on the emperor’s role as the Son of Heaven, the imperial state’s varying views and treatment of Confucian, Taoist, Buddhist, Christian, and folk religious practices, and religiously-inspired rebellions. We will conclude with attention to the cycle of persecution and revival of religion under the current regime.