Culture and Society in China

Religion in China: A Complex Landscape

Atheist State with Diverse Beliefs:

• Official Position: China is officially an atheist society, with communism considered incompatible with religion. However, the reality is more complex, reflecting a diverse range of religious beliefs.

Religious Diversity:

• Varied Estimates: Figures suggest that up to 200 million people in China may adhere to religious beliefs, showcasing the rich tapestry of religious diversity within the country.

Controlled Religious Practices:

• Government Oversight: Despite constitutional guarantees of religious freedom, religious groups, including officially recognised ones like Buddhism, are subject to government control.

Xi Jinping's Directive:

• Nationalistic Approach: In 2017, President Xi Jinping emphasised that all religions in China should adopt a Chinese orientation, reflecting a nationalistic perspective.

Repression of Unrecognised Religions:

• Physical Activity: Prisoners are afforded opportunities for exercise and recreation, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

Persecution of Falun Gong

• Quasi-Religious Groups: Unrecognised quasi-religious groups like Falun Gong have faced heavy persecution, highlighting the challenges faced by those outside officially sanctioned beliefs.

Conclusion:

• China's approach to religion reflects a delicate balance, officially atheist yet navigating a landscape marked by diverse religious practices and periodic government control.