The Emergence of Transcultural Humanistic Buddhism through the Lens of Religious Entrepreneurship

This article investigates the innovative strategies that have allowed a young, transcultural Humanistic Buddhist organisation in China and elsewhere to emerge, endure and expand in challenging environments. Developing religious entrepreneurship as an analytic tool, we explain how this organisation survives and thrives in a diverse range of geographical, cultural and political settings. This in-depth case study draws on original data from extensive fieldwork in mainland China, revealing a transcultural turn within a movement that has already become a global force in Chinese Buddhism. This case study also contributes to our theoretical understanding of how innovation and controlled risk-taking allow religious start-ups to expand their influence and carve out new spaces for growth.