Reconsidering Ecological Civilization through Confucian-Christian Dialogue: A Sino-Christian Perspective
Author: Bryan K. M. Mok ( Centre for the Study of Religious Ethics and Chinese Culture, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Research Associate )
Vol.&No.：Vol. 69, No. 2
Date：September 2024
Pages：53-78
DOI：https://doi.org/10.6210/JNTNU.202409_69(2).0003
Abstract：
As part of the global effort to address the ecological crisis, the concept of ecological civilization has become a prominent movement in China, driven by state policy. This movement often highlights the ecological aspects of Chinese culture, presenting it as an asset to environmentalism. This paper critically evaluates this perspective by exploring its cultural and religious dimensions through the dialogue between neo-Confucianism and Sino-Christian theology. It argues that constructing an ecological civilization in China cannot rely solely on official discourse, nor be confined to eco socialism, but requires a deeper cultural and religious exploration to fully realize the ecological potential of Chinese culture. Specifically, it posits that neo-Confucian concepts such as qi (氣) and li (理) can guide humanity towards unity with the cosmos and a harmonious relationship with nature through spiritual cultivation. Additionally, it suggests that the Christology and soteriology of Chinese Christian thinkers can enhance this path of personal and social transformation by addressing the human tendency to prioritize selfish desires over the well-being of others. Both the Confucian and Chinese Christian worldviews are essential to constructing an ecological civilization, offering profound insights into the cultural and religious dimensions of the movement.
Keywords：sustainability, ecological civilization, Sino-Christian theology, Confucianism, environmentalism
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