Protestant Christianity and Civil Society in Authoritarian China

Abstract

6. Putnam's 1993 book is the classic argument for social capital production as explaining the functioning of liberal democracies.

Church Under Leviathan

“…There are plenty of studies concerning how churches in a democratic regime engage in political activities and mobilize citizens (Wald and Calhoun‐Brown 2010). There are also studies concerning how churches in an authoritarian society, such as China, keep a distance from politics and rarely challenge the party which rules (Vala 2012). While Hong Kong is a “soft” authoritarian society, it nonetheless imposes fewer restrictions on non‐governmental organizations.…”

Introduction

“…Many scholars looking at Christianity claim that the growth of that religion in contemporary China represents a momentous change (Bays 2012). A major dilemma faced by many Christians is whether they should express solidarity with co-religionists abroad or act as Chinese patriots first (Vala and Lim 2012). For historians of Protestant Christianity, the religion has managed to grow because the official association has successfully adapted its theology to socialism and sought 'common ground' with the regime early on (Wickeri 2011), to the extent that believers have sought to ensure that their spiritual ideals are compatible with socialist values (Wielander 2013).…”

Issues and Challenges for Chinese Christians as Seen Online

“…7 This is obviously true in the case of Chinese Christianity, whose adherents are increasingly younger, more educated, and more urban. 8 Sermons, personal reflections from bloggers, theological exegesis from fringe groups, training materials and various Chinese versions of the Bible are all transforming individual beliefs and practice. Beliefs are adjusted as Christians are exposed to new theological ideas or doctrine not taught or preached in their own congregations and practice is changed and reinvented as people share their lived religion in everyday life.…”