英文摘要 |
Animal release, which results from the concept of not killing precept, protecting life and mercy, is a common religious behavior in Taiwan society. Though originally praiseworthy, this religious behavior confronts criticism from the society, especially after its commercialization collectivity by some Buddhist group. Not only does the discourse against animal release come from the environment protection organizations. but some Buddhist monks also condemn this phenomenon. It is manifested that animal release provokes controversies in society, and different viewpoints exist in religious organizations. However, animal release is not an exclusive religious activity for Buddhist religious body. Many folk religious temples and Spirit-writing cults hold animal release activity as well. There are some discrepancies in ideas and activities of animal release between them and Buddhist organizations. In addition to understanding the doctrines related to animal release, this research identifies five types of animal release behaviors now in Taiwan depending on the practical fieldworks, and how the confraternities of animal release react to the opposing discourses on their doctrines and actual activities of animal release. |