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Peking Hotel with Liu He
China’s Spiritual Revival and the Rise (and Fall) of Falun Gong — with Ian Johnson
Feb 20, 2025
Ian Johnson, an award-winning journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner, discusses the complexities surrounding Falun Gong and its portrayal by the Chinese government. He highlights the spiritual revival in post-Mao China, revealing how disillusionment led to a surge in religious movements. Johnson shares personal anecdotes from his reporting journey and reflects on the challenges journalists face in addressing the controversial narrative of Falun Gong, calling for a nuanced understanding of cultural issues in the media.
53:57
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of Falun Gong in 1990s China reflects a broader spiritual revival as disillusionment with Maoist ideology encouraged exploration of alternative beliefs.
- Falun Gong's complex portrayal as both a cult and a folk religion exemplifies the nuanced realities of spirituality amid political repression and stigma.
Deep dives
The Cultural Context of Falun Gong's Emergence
In the mid-90s, China's religious landscape was undergoing significant shifts as people sought alternatives to the discredited Maoist ideology after decades of hardship. The failure of Maoism to deliver prosperity left many disillusioned, prompting individuals to explore spiritual practices, including the rise of Falun Gong as a syncretic folk religion. This movement combined elements of Buddhism, Taoism, and local folk beliefs, resonating with a populace yearning for meaning. Concurrently, there was a notable revival of underground Christian sects, highlighting a broader trend of increasing spiritual exploration within the society.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode