Understanding the Mormon Ethos
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Warning: 2 Corinthians 11:4, Galatians 1:8-9
1. Mormonism is Relational, Not Theological
In Mormon culture, theology takes a backseat to relationships and family. Doctrinal consistency is seen as less important than maintaining unity and harmony within the LDS community. Theological positions can shift or be reinterpreted to preserve relational bonds or adapt to new cultural pressures. This theological flexibility helps explain how major doctrinal reversals are absorbed with little disruption. Examples include polygamy (D&C 132, 1843; Official Declaration 1, 1890) and race and priesthood (Official Declaration 2, 1978). “Family is forever” is a central organizing principle of Mormonism, often eclipsing fidelity to unchanging truth (The Family: A Proclamation to the World, 1995).
2. Mormonism is Fluid, Not Grounded
Mormonism has shown a consistent pattern of adjusting not only its doctrines but also its language to suit changing cultural, social, and institutional needs. Terms once embraced, such as Mormon, Mormonism, and LDS Church, have now been officially discouraged by church leaders in favor of the full name, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—a reversal of decades of public branding, including the famous “I’m a Mormon” campaign. Similarly, core doctrines such as polygamy, priesthood restrictions based on race, and even teachings about the nature of God have undergone redefinition or downplaying to maintain public favor. This rebranding or mainstreaming of beliefs and terminology reflects a broader theological fluidity. Truth is not fixed but reinterpreted as needed. Historically, Mormon leaders (including Joseph Smith) taught that all other Christian churches were apostates or “abominations” (see Joseph Smith History 1:19).
3. Mormonism is Pragmatic, Not Principled
LDS teachings and priorities often shift depending on practical needs or public image, especially under the influence of the current prophet. Rather than anchoring doctrine in unchanging truth, the church adapts its tone, emphasis, or even beliefs to fit cultural or political moments. A clear example occurred during Mitt Romney’s presidential runs (2008–2012), when church leaders softened distinctive teachings that might seem controversial to mainstream voters. During that time, there was less emphasis on doctrines like eternal progression, exaltation to godhood, and temple ceremonies, while messaging shifted toward family values and belief in Jesus. The goal was not theological clarity but cultural acceptance.
4. Mormonism is Pliable, Not Firmly-Fixed
In Mormonism, doctrines and beliefs have reshaped over time. The LDS Church or individual Mormons have adapted standards without reexamining the previous standard’s original meaning or context. D&C 89, known as the “Word of Wisdom,” is a clear example. When first introduced in 1833, early church leaders, including Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, consumed alcohol, tobacco, and tea. Over time, however, later prophets reinterpreted this instruction and made it a strict health code. Eventually, abstinence from coffee and tea became a requirement for temple worthiness. More recently, the interpretation expanded to include energy drinks and vaping. Individual Mormons pick and choose a different interpretation or develop their own. This evolving application shows how pliable LDS doctrine can be for Mormons.
5. Mormonism is Self-Based, Not Christ-Based
LDS doctrine places the weight of salvation and eternal progression on the individual’s efforts, making personal worthiness and obedience the foundation for hope in the next life. While grace is mentioned more often in modern LDS teaching, it is still defined as “after all we can do” (2 Nephi 25:23)—meaning Christ’s help only comes once we’ve proven ourselves. Church culture reinforces this by emphasizing personal behavior, rule-keeping, and checklist spirituality. Worthiness interviews, temple recommends, and callings become spiritual scorecards. The typical Mormon feels like he or she can never measure up—it’s never enough.