Power Dynamics in Beijing

In this step you will watch third clip from the documentary and explore how the polarization unfolded in the negotiations over the Joint Declaration. You will see the characteristics of this dynamic explained in the previous step, that polarization often happens through and over language and that strong opposition between two groups emerges.

Watch another part of the documentary and note down your answers to the following questions:

1. Around which themes did polarization emerge?
2. Which actors contributed to the polarizing dynamic?
3. Which terms and themes remained controversial?
4. How was the controversy ‘solved’ in order to realize a joint Declaration?

When you have noted down your own answers, move on to the next step that unpacks the power dynamics between religious and secular actors in Beijing.

References:

You can find the full video here:

• Michael Epstein and Dyllan McGee “MAKERS: Once and For All” 2015.