In this paper, I seek to develop a framework within which to investigate the place of religious traditions in modem, global society. Economic and political modemity--globalization, the nation-state, and the developmen...In this paper, I seek to develop a framework within which to investigate the place of religious traditions in modem, global society. Economic and political modemity--globalization, the nation-state, and the development of global networks and organizations--establish widely-shared frames in which religions have been transformed. In particular, the development of global capitalism has provided unprecedented financial means and technologies of communication to religious leaders. I propose that local religious culture must be considered in light of these new organizational forms, networks, and practices. I take as my starting point a single location in China, the Daoist temple complex at Wudang Mountain, and the associated practices and activities of the Wudang Daoists. I consider how Wudang Daoism fits into four projects and two fields of practice. The four projects are cosmopolitan, civilizational, national and religious; the fields of practice are regional and diasporic.展开更多
文摘In this paper, I seek to develop a framework within which to investigate the place of religious traditions in modem, global society. Economic and political modemity--globalization, the nation-state, and the development of global networks and organizations--establish widely-shared frames in which religions have been transformed. In particular, the development of global capitalism has provided unprecedented financial means and technologies of communication to religious leaders. I propose that local religious culture must be considered in light of these new organizational forms, networks, and practices. I take as my starting point a single location in China, the Daoist temple complex at Wudang Mountain, and the associated practices and activities of the Wudang Daoists. I consider how Wudang Daoism fits into four projects and two fields of practice. The four projects are cosmopolitan, civilizational, national and religious; the fields of practice are regional and diasporic.
