2026/03/10 by Hangwei Li
Social Sciences · #China's Global Influence and Migration #Global Maritime and Colonial Histories #International Development and Aid
paper · pdf · doi:10.1017/asr.2025.10170
crossref issued 2026/03/10 · crossref published 2026/03/10 · crossref published-online 2026/03/10 · openalex publication_date 2026/03/10 · crossref created 2026/03/10 · openalex created_date 2026/03/11 · crossref published-print 2026/06/01 · crossref deposited 2026/07/16 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/17 · crossref indexed 2026/07/30
Abstract Studies on Chinese cultural and religious engagement abroad are often framed through the lens of state-driven soft power. Drawing on the case study of the Zambia Shaolin Cultural Center (ZSSC), I challenge this state-centric interpretation, emphasizing the collaborative, relational, and fluid nature of China–Africa cultural and religious encounters. Inspired by “assemblage thinking” and based on fieldwork observation and interviews, I examine the heterogeneity, fluidity, and adaptability of Shaolin’s operations in Zambia. I argue that ZSCC should be viewed as an evolving assemblage where diverse actors and elements interact and co-create meaning through adaptation and negotiation.