Having long been stigmatized as an immoral and even illegal "superstition", the popular practice of divination is experiencing a revival in contemporary China. Fate Calculation Experts explores how diviners attempt to achieve legitimation in a society which identifies strongly with modernity, science, and rationality. As well as associating with modern knowledge production systems, diviners build a positive social image for their occupation via claims to moral authority and appeals to "tradition". Beyond matters of image management, diviners' efforts towards legitimation also figure in the social relationships and fundamental cultural values they develop in their practice.

Geng Li received her doctoral degree in anthropology from the College of Asia and the Pacific, Australian National University. Her research interests include popular religion, ethnic groups in China, built heritage and vernacular architecture.

Acknowledgements

Introduction

Chapter 1. The Social and Political Status of Divination in China
Chapter 2. The Practice of Divination and Diviners
Chapter 3. Typical Customers of Divination
Chapter 4. The Moral Discourses of Divination
Chapter 5. Divination as an Aspect of 'Traditional Culture'
Chapter 6. Divination as Counselling
Chapter 7. The Professionalization of Divination through Associations

Conclusion

References
Index