Feng shui carried too far (2)

Millennia-old belief system

Some people believe feng shui charts and documents have been unearthed from crypts dating more than 6,500 years.

Feng shui masters have been widely consulted by Chinese architects for several thousand years.

Professor Zhang Jianwei with the School of Law of Tsinghua University wrote in his blog last October about the different reasons why people and officials cling to their belief in feng shui.
He says it is acceptable that some officials invite feng shui masters to help make sure that construction projects they build are better.

"Some officials use feng shui after they have done vile deeds because they believe some mysterious force is controlling them and hope feng shui will help them avoid disaster and bring more opportunities to get them promoted," wrote Zhang.

To get a promotion or to change their luck, superstitious officials often accept feng shui consultations that are given as gifts by those seeking favors.

"If officials ask someone in business to pay for a feng shui master's advice, it certainly is a bribe," said He Bing, vice president with School of Law, China University of Political Science and Law in an interview with Fangyuan Magazine.