Networks of Faith: Buddhist Monastic Communities and Regional Socioeconomic Development in the Pearl River Delta

Abstract

This study aims to explore how Buddhist monk communities in the Pearl River Delta have a profound impact on regional socio-economic development through faith networks. Through a comprehensive analysis of the historical background, religious practice and social and economic interaction of Buddhist monk communities in the Pearl River Delta, this paper reveals the key role of Buddhist monk communities in regional social structure, cultural integration and economic transformation. The study found that communities of Buddhist monks are not only propagators of spiritual beliefs, they contribute to local economic development and social stability through their participation in philanthropy, educational projects, rural revitalization, and the accumulation of social capital. Through its extensive faith network, the monk community has built cross-religious and cross-cultural social ties and promoted cultural integration and social integration in the Pearl River Delta region. Especially during the modernization process, the Buddhist monastic community has formed a unique socio-economic network through religious activities, social interaction and community support, enhancing social cohesion and the resilience of the regional economy. This paper uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, case analysis, interview method and social network analysis, and through field investigation and data analysis, comprehensively evaluates the contribution of Buddhist monk communities to the economic and social changes in the Pearl River Delta region. The results show that Buddhist belief networks not only play an important role in cultural transmission, but also have important practical significance in promoting social capital, enhancing community governance capacity and promoting sustainable development. Finally, this paper proposes a series of policy recommendations aimed at furthering the role of Buddhist monk communities in promoting sustainable local socio-economic development.