What is Mormonism? A Student’s Introduction is an easy-to-read and informative overview of the religion founded by Joseph Smith in 1830. This short and lively book covers Mormonism’s history, core beliefs, rituals, and devotional practices, as well as the impact on the daily lives of its followers. The book focuses on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Salt Lake City-based church that is the largest and best-known expression of Mormonism, whilst also exploring lesser known churches that claim descent from Smith’s original revelations.
Designed for undergraduate religious studies and history students, What is Mormonism? provides a reliable and easily digestible introduction to a steadily growing religion that continues to befuddle even learned observers of American religion and culture.
List of figures
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1 A Week in the Life of a Mormon Family
Chapter 2 Visions
Chapter 3 Gatherings
Chapter 4 Recalibrations
Chapter 5 Scriptures
Chapter 6 Authorities
Chapter 7 Beliefs
Chapter 8 Practices
Chapter 9 Globalization
Chapter 10 Mormonisms
Epilogue
Biography
Patrick Q. Mason is Howard W. Hunter Chair of Mormon Studies and Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities at Claremont Graduate University, USA.
"An eminently readable introduction to a religious tradition many Americans have found baffling. What Is Mormonism? is the ideal guide for students, teachers, and others seeking to make sense of the doctrines, rituals, culture, and history of the LDS Church." - John G. Turner, George Mason University, USA
"This book represents the pinnacle of scholarly works in contemporary Mormon Studies and highlights the "New Mormon History" approach so desperately needed in the field.By adding to the historical narrative with numerous contemporary challenges faced by the Mormon community, Mason brings the lived religion of Mormonism to light more effectively than any other book on Mormonism." - Joel Stoker, Elmira College, USA
"For the nonspecialist professor, they provide useful information, chapters that can be easily integrated into a syllabus, and pedagogical suggestions. The books will prove most useful to teachers when situated within broader developments in the historiography of Mormonism." - Jennifer Graber, University of Texas at Austin, USA
"This book could easily be incorporated into a college or seminary course that focuses on Mormonism or religions of North America. Religious studies and history students will greatly benefit from this book since Mason’s introduction is interesting to read, easy to understand, and informative. One of the greatest strengths of this book is its survey of Mormon history, beliefs, and practices in clear and accessible language. Above all, Mason’s attention to evidence in its social and historical contexts will greatly aid students as they learn more about Mormonism." - Steven Shisley, California Lutheran University, USA
