Univ. drops feng shui course after controversy

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-03-24 09:33

The Wuhan University of Science and Technology Zhongnan branch was forced to drop feng shui from its curriculum after opposition from critics.

The traditional practice, used for thousands of years, include the study of heaven and earth when building or decorating a home to maximize the qi.

Some people said the class promoted superstition. The university was the first in the Chinese mainland to offer such a course, which was introduced last semester.

Ma Wei, the teacher at the School of Urban Construction, said he was pressured by the university and public to drop the course although it was popular among students.

Ma's course included nine lectures that touched on how to make residential buildings and their interior co-exist harmoniously with surrounding environments.

Feng shui, literally translated as "wind and water", has been practiced in China for thousands of years and is gaining popularity overseas.

Feng shui practitioners are often consulted before the construction or renovation of a building.

(Changjiang Commercial News)