Belief Culture cover

Belief Culture

Rating 3.2
Word count
126K words
Chapters
9
ISBN
9787807119937

Tags

Summary

This book recounts China's extraordinary course from prehistory to the present: the opening up of its territory, the formation of its peoples, social evolution, economic and cultural development, and political change.

Editor's review

"Belief Culture," compiled by Li Munan and published by Henan University Press, is a scholarly work that systematically examines and explores the phenomenon of human belief. The book has not generated widespread reader ratings or discussion on mainstream book review platforms (such as Douban), which to some extent reflects its clearly academic positioning and readership. In terms of structure, the book is not an exposition of the doctrines of any particular religion; rather, it seeks to analyze, from an integrated perspective drawing on cultural studies, sociology, and even philosophy, the formation mechanisms of "belief" as a core element of the human spirit, its forms of expression, and its complex role in the course of social history. The author Li Munan's academic background enables him to handle this sensitive and vast subject with considerable objectivity, avoiding simple value judgments and focusing instead on scholarly exposition and analysis. For readers, the value of this book lies in the cognitive framework it offers that goes beyond individual belief experience, helping readers understand the differences and commonalities of belief systems across civilizations, and how belief shapes collective identity, ethical norms, and cultural traditions. Its style is plain and rigorous, with abundant examples, but it may require readers to have some foundation in social science reading and patience. Overall, this is a serious work that guides readers toward deep reflection and broadens cultural horizons, particularly suited to those interested in religious studies, cultural anthropology, or intellectual history.

Who it's for

A good fit for

  • Social science enthusiasts with a preliminary interest in religious studies, cultural anthropology, or comparative cultural research
  • University students or researchers who wish to understand the relationship between belief phenomena and social development at a theoretical level
  • Readers seeking to objectively understand diverse belief cultures beyond their own faith background
  • People engaged in cultural communication, social research, or cross-cultural exchange work

Not a good fit for

  • Readers expecting specific religious spiritual practice guides or seeking personal spiritual comfort
  • Readers inclined toward highly plot-driven, highly popularized bestsellers

Reading tips

  1. It is suggested to first browse the table of contents to grasp the book's logical thread from conceptual definition and historical evolution to functional analysis, then choose chapters of interest for close reading
  2. While reading, combine the book's cases from different civilizations with one's own knowledge for horizontal comparison and reflection
  3. If you encounter highly theoretical sections, do not rush; slow down or consult relevant background materials to enhance understanding

About the publisher

Henan University Press China · Founded in 1985

Henan University Press operates in the fields of educational publishing and academic publishing, with books covering classical literature, social novels, world classics, folk literature, and foreign literature. Representative works in the catalog include the Chinese classical novels Dream of the Red Chamber, Journey to the West, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, and Water Margin, as well as Chinese and foreign literary classics such as Xiao Hong's The Field of Life and Death, Ernest Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea, and Jules Verne's Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. Its author resources include classical writers such as Cao Xueqin, Gao E, Wu Cheng'en, Luo Guanzhong, and Shi Nai'an, along with modern and contemporary authors and translators such as Xiao Hong, Ernest Hemingway, and Zhang Chiheng. Drawing on its university background, the press emphasizes the collation and promotion of classic texts and has built up a certain selection of literary titles. Public information on its specific publishing features and series plans is limited.

Contents

  1. 编写说明
  2. 一、万物崇拜
  3. 二、神仙信仰1
  4. 二、神仙信仰2
  5. 三、百事禁忌1
  6. 三、百事禁忌2
  7. 三、百事禁忌3
  8. 四、风水与相术
  9. 后记

FAQ

Does this book promote a particular religion?
No. The book is grounded in academic research and aims to analyze belief as a universal phenomenon from cultural and social perspectives, rather than promoting or disparaging any particular religion.
Does reading this book require a professional background in philosophy or religious studies?
Not necessarily, but some basic social science knowledge will help make the reading smoother. The author strives for clarity in explaining concepts, and general readers can grasp the core views through patient reading.
Is the content of this book outdated?
The book focuses on foundational theories and historical analysis of belief culture, and these core issues are fairly stable. Of course, readers may also extend their thinking by connecting with new phenomena in contemporary society.

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About the author

李慕南 Author

Li Munan is a Chinese author with a considerable body of work, though public information about him is limited, and details such as his nationality, birth and death years, and personal background are not clearly recorded. Judging from the 262 titles held in the collection, his writing spans several fields, including popular science, inspirational growth, parenting, and fashion. Representative works include Don't Underestimate This Knowledge, Learn Like a Scientist, Bizarre Plants, How Scientists Learn, Think Like a Scientist, Stories of the Growth of Chinese Education Masters, Classic Education Stories from China and Abroad, and The Greatest Technological Inventions. These titles suggest that he excels at turning scientific knowledge, learning methods, and educational stories into accessible reading for young readers and parents concerned with their children's development. Overall, his works focus on popularizing knowledge and inspiring personal growth, with plain language and themes close to everyday reading needs, forming a practical style within science and education books.

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