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How Does Religion Work in China?

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Manage episode 512821856 series 1046357
Content provided by National Committee on U.S.-China Relations. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by National Committee on U.S.-China Relations or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

How does religion work in China? Officially, the government recognizes five religions, but people and their practices don't fit neatly into these categories. Spiritual folk traditions are widely practiced and look like religious activity, but the Chinese government labels these actions as "intangible cultural heritage," sometimes supporting and subsidizing them. However, the government still views some religions with skepticism, especially those with possible foreign ties, such as Christianity or Islam. Nonetheless, underground churches, mosques, and temples persist in the gray zone between what is officially allowed and what actually plays out on the ground. As people in China continue to flock towards religion, the government will need to navigate its role as a referee in religious life and the tension that arises from the intricate dynamic.

Ian Johnson joined us in September 2025 to explore how religion is viewed by the government and people in China and how its practice is managed in everyday life.

Learn more about the speaker and watch the video here

  continue reading

248 episodes

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How Does Religion Work in China?

The US-China Podcast

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Manage episode 512821856 series 1046357
Content provided by National Committee on U.S.-China Relations. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by National Committee on U.S.-China Relations or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

How does religion work in China? Officially, the government recognizes five religions, but people and their practices don't fit neatly into these categories. Spiritual folk traditions are widely practiced and look like religious activity, but the Chinese government labels these actions as "intangible cultural heritage," sometimes supporting and subsidizing them. However, the government still views some religions with skepticism, especially those with possible foreign ties, such as Christianity or Islam. Nonetheless, underground churches, mosques, and temples persist in the gray zone between what is officially allowed and what actually plays out on the ground. As people in China continue to flock towards religion, the government will need to navigate its role as a referee in religious life and the tension that arises from the intricate dynamic.

Ian Johnson joined us in September 2025 to explore how religion is viewed by the government and people in China and how its practice is managed in everyday life.

Learn more about the speaker and watch the video here

  continue reading

248 episodes

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