This introductory course explores the impact of the modern political revolution resulting in Communism on the cultural and religious traditions of China and Tibet from its inception in 1949 to the modern day. Chinese Communism impacted the role and practice of religion in mainland China and its minority cultures. This course examines the particular effects of Communist rule on the regulated practice or religion in China, the cultural impact on minority populations like the Tibetans, the commodification of religion and culture, forced resettlement and defacement/removal of sacred space, and human rights. Students will examine political and government documents, religious texts and narratives, and art and performance.
Humanities Breadth, Global Diversity and System of Power, Privilege and Inequality