Uncovering the 1768 Chinese Sorcery Panic

This book offers a detailed account of the sorcery scare known as "calling souls," which swept across China in 1768 and triggered a nationwide panic. Through careful historical research, the author reconstructs the events of that year, uncovering the social contradictions and cultural anxieties that fueled the crisis. The narrative examines the social roots, political motivations, and psychological factors behind the widespread fear, providing insight into the complexities of Qing-dynasty society. By looking at how the bureaucratic system responded, the book reveals the strategies officials used to manage the panic. It also incorporates the theories and analyses of Professor Kong Fuli, whose work offers a distinct perspective on the social dynamics of the time. The result is a thoughtful examination of a pivotal moment in eighteenth-century Chinese history and the lasting effects of the panic on the country's development.