| ID | 173856 |
| Title Proper | Between spiritual economy and religious commodification |
| Other Title Information | negotiating temple autonomy in contemporary China |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Chang, Kuei-min |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | This research investigates the contentious use of temple assets amid widespread local state-led religious commodification in contemporary China. Based on a comparative analysis of 22 historic temples, this paper argues that given the choice, temple leaders strive for property-management autonomy, which they negotiate on two fronts. Externally, owing to the immobility of historic temple assets, temple leaders avoid antagonizing local state agents by demonstrating political conformity and the temple's economic contribution. Internally, they seek to build a donation-based merit economy to sustain the monastic institution. Since such autonomy must operate within the authoritarian state's regulatory framework, the restrained contestation of the religious leadership actually helps to strengthen state control over religion. |
| `In' analytical Note | China Quarterly No. 242; Jun 2020: p.440-459 |
| Journal Source | China Quarterly No 242 |
| Key Words | China ; Religious Commodification ; Temple Revival ; Political Economy of Religion ; Spiritual Economy ; Religious Autonomy ; Religious Property |