Overview

Today's resurgence of global strife, polarization and neo-nationalism is unprecedented in intensity since the end of the Cold War. Against the backdrop of such dramatic changes, there is anxiety leading many to cling to certitudes that the world is made up of clear-cut divisions: developed versus undeveloped; democratic versus dictatorial; tolerant versus intolerant... Yet, when taking a long term view, and when delving into the vastness of geographical spaces, it becomes obvious that such beliefs are decoupled from reality. This work shows the relativity of these beliefs by examining an issue that has divided the West and China: Tolerance, particularly as reflected in state acts towards religion. It does so without wanting to expound opinions but rather to verify facts; without simplifying but rather to show complexity; and without judging but rather to comprehend.

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9781009344081

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Reviews

'The biggest disadvantage that the Western mind has in the 21st century is that it tends to think in black and white categories: liberal or illiberal; democratic or autocratic; and so on. However, that is not how the Asian mind works. This is why the Tolerance of Informality is very timely. It suggests that Asian societies may be equally or more tolerant than Western societies. Such an idea is unthinkable for many in the West. This is why they should read carefully this work to open new possibilities in their minds.' Kishore Mahbubani, Distinguished Fellow, Asia Research Institute NUS, former President of the United Nations Security Council, and author of Living the Asian Century 'A thought-provoking analysis of the notion of tolerance... the work challenges the notion that tolerance is an 'impartial norm', implemented in Western democracies but often rejected in authoritarian regimes. Instead, this work reveals the way in which tolerance is a construction, often fluid over time, shaped by many actors, and not always subject to state intention. The work dispels the convenience of simple dichotomies to explain the existence or repression of tolerance. It packs a significant punch and is highly recommended to anyone who thinks about questions of tolerance and the nature of state-society relations in China.' Tony Saich, Professor of International Affairs, Harvard University 'The Tolerance of Informality argues that tolerance evolves through complex, multi-actor interactions across time and levels of government. The nuanced case studies of Hui Muslim mosques and cemeteries challenge assumptions about uniform oppression in China. The book invites global readers to reconsider the nature of tolerance itself. By demonstrating its temporality, fluidity, and endogenous nature, the study reveals parallels to religious land use debates and governance challenges worldwide, particularly in the Global North. The relevance extends far beyond China.' Helen Bao, Professor of Land Economy, University of Cambridge

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