On Daoism and Religious Networks in a Digital Age

Abstract

Singapore’s census has repeatedly revealed that those reporting themselves as Daoist have fallen in numbers compared with those professing Buddhism or Christianity. For Singaporeans, Daoism refers not only to the formal ritual practices of Daoist priests but also to ancestor worship, temple festivals, divination practices, and spirit possession—practices that some regard as peasant superstitions ill fitted to a modern urban setting. Singaporean Daoists, including lay Daoists, priests, and spirit mediums, are aware that they must adapt their practices to the expectations of residents in this modern city state.