The relationship between religion and the state is a topic of major concern in the history of civilizations. With the arrival of Buddhism and the development of religious Daoism, religious matters came to occupy an increasingly important role in China. Given the Confucian orientation of Chinese governments, how should religions should be treated by the Chinese state? Should they be accommodated? Tolerated? Promoted? Eliminated? How can religious values, in particular Buddhism, be viewed in accordance with Confucian teachings and principles?
