A study on Chinese religion model and how it may inspire interreligious relations in Singapore

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to demonstrate on the Chinese Religion Model which focuses more on religious practices rather than distinctive religious identity, and evaluate whether this model is possible to provide a solution to alleviate some of the remaining problems of religions in Singapore. The thesis is composed of three main chapters. Chapter 1 introduces the historical background of Chinese religion, including the formation process of The Three Teachings and the establishment of Sanyi Religion as an example of coexistence and integration of different religious traditions. Chapter 2 focuses on the Chinese Religion Model in contemporary China, which is subdivided into three parts. The first part investigates the state control on religious affairs since the mid-20th century; the second part analyzes on the modern religious practice as a result of religious coexistence and hybridity; and the third part further explains the Chinese Religious Model which consists of efficacy-based religious practice and ambiguous religious identity. Chapter 3 describes on some of the main problems of Singapore religious environment led by state control, and demonstrate on why and how Chinese Religion Model can help in alleviate these problems. At last, conclusion is drawn that by accepting practices from various religions can help to build a sense of community in a multi-religious society where religions are under state control.