Studies in Chinese Religions

Scope & Guideline

Advancing Understanding of Ancient Beliefs and Practices

Introduction

Welcome to the Studies in Chinese Religions information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Studies in Chinese Religions, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN2372-9988
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2015 to 2024
AbbreviationSTUD CHINESE RELIG / Stud. Chin. Relig.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Studies in Chinese Religions' aims to explore the intricate tapestry of religious practices, beliefs, and cultural exchanges within Chinese religious traditions. It emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating historical, sociological, and philosophical perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolution and significance of these religions.
  1. Interdisciplinary Studies of Chinese Religions:
    The journal encourages research that crosses disciplinary boundaries, including anthropology, history, and cultural studies, to provide a rich analysis of Chinese religious practices and beliefs.
  2. Historical Contextualization of Religious Texts and Practices:
    It focuses on the historical development of religious texts, rituals, and schools of thought, examining their impact on society and culture throughout different dynasties.
  3. Cultural Exchange and Influence:
    The journal highlights the interactions between Chinese religions and other cultural and religious traditions, particularly those from Japan and other East Asian contexts.
  4. Gender and Religion:
    There is a consistent focus on the role of gender in religious practices and texts, exploring how women and gender dynamics influence and shape religious experiences.
  5. Environmental and Social Issues:
    Research on how religious beliefs intersect with contemporary social and environmental issues, reflecting the relevance of these traditions in modern contexts.
The journal has recently seen a rise in several trending themes that reflect the evolving landscape of Chinese religious studies. These emerging scopes indicate areas of growing scholarly interest and relevance to contemporary discourse.
  1. Environmental Concerns in Religious Contexts:
    There is an emerging focus on how religious traditions address environmental issues, as seen in studies that connect Buddhist practices to ecological awareness and activism.
  2. Gender and Buddhist Practices:
    Recent publications are increasingly exploring women's roles within Buddhism, particularly in late imperial China, highlighting the importance of gender dynamics in religious devotion and practice.
  3. Cultural Exchange and Transnational Studies:
    A growing interest in the exchanges between Chinese religions and other cultural spheres, particularly with Japan, suggests a trend towards transnational studies that examine the flow of ideas and practices.
  4. Aesthetic and Artistic Expressions in Religion:
    There is an increasing emphasis on the aesthetic dimensions of Chinese religions, particularly in relation to poetry, art, and material culture, indicating a broader interest in the sensory and experiential aspects of faith.

Declining or Waning

As the journal progresses, certain themes appear to be diminishing in frequency or significance. These waning scopes suggest a potential shift in focus or a reduction in scholarly interest in specific areas of Chinese religious studies.
  1. Traditional Ritual Practices:
    There seems to be a decline in papers focused exclusively on traditional ritual practices without contextual analysis, suggesting a move towards more integrated studies that consider the socio-political and cultural implications.
  2. Esoteric Buddhism:
    While still present, studies specifically dedicated to esoteric Buddhism appear less frequently, possibly indicating a saturation of research in this niche area.
  3. Historical Studies of Lesser-Known Figures:
    There is a noticeable reduction in papers exploring lesser-known historical figures in Chinese religious traditions, as contemporary research may be shifting towards broader thematic studies.

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