Digital Culture and Religion in Asia (Hardcover)

This book examines the connection between new communication technologies and religion in a range of East Asian countries. It discusses both how religious organisations make use of new technologies, and also explores how new technologies are reshaping religion in novel and interesting ways. Based on extensive original research, it focuses in particular on Christianity in South Korea, Neo-Shintoism in Japan and the Falun Gong in China. Particular examples of new technology reshaping religion which are explored include: how Korean "mega-churches" create "media environments" and new forms of technological worship practice, which, interestingly, make easier participation by members of the Korean diaspora worldwide; how newer "sects" of Shintoism have used the internet to create on-line shrines; and how the Falun Gong has used the internet in its struggles with the Chinese Communist state. The book also explores the idea that use of new technology in itself mirrors religious practices, and discusses the impact of religion and new technology on national consciousness in the region.