Contemporary Mormonism: Latter-day Saints in Modern America

by Claudia L. Bushman

Much misunderstood, Mormonism had a colorful beginning in the 19th century, as a visionary named Joseph Smith founded and built a community of believers with their own unique faith. In the late-20th century, the church had to come to terms with its own growth and organization, as well as with the increasing pervasiveness of globalization, secularization, and cultural changes. Today Mormonism is one of the major religions in America, and continues to grow internationally. However, though the church itself remains strong, it is elusive to those of other faiths. Here, a seasoned author and third-generation Mormon sheds light on the everyday lives and practices of faithful Mormons. Bushman's readers will come away with a more thorough appreciation of what it means to be Mormon in the modern world.

Much misunderstood, Mormonism had a colorful beginning in the 19th century, as a visionary named Joseph Smith founded and built a community of believers with their own unique faith. In the late-20th century, the church had to come to terms with its own growth and organization, as well as with the increasing pervasiveness of globalization, secularization, and cultural changes. Today Mormonism is one of the major religions in America, and one that continues to grow internationally. However, though the church itself remains strong, it is elusive to those of other faiths. Here, a seasoned author and third-generation Mormon sheds light on the everyday lives and practices of faithful Mormons. Bushman's readers will come away with a more thorough appreciation of what it means to be Mormon in the modern world.

Following Brigham Young into the Great Basin and founding communities that have endured for over 100 years, Mormons have forged a rich history in this country even as they built communities around the world. But the origins of this faith and those who adhere to it remain mysterious to many in the United States. Bushman allows readers a vivid glimpse into the lives of Mormons―their beliefs, rituals, and practices, as well as their views on race, ethnicity, social class, gender, and sexual orientation. The voices of actual Mormons reveal much about their inspiration, devotion, patriotism, individualism, and conservatism. With its mythical history and unlikely success, many wonder what has made this religion endure through the years. Here, readers will find answers to their questions about what it means to be Mormon in contemporary America.

Genres: Nonfiction, Mormonism, Religion

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Kent · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was disappointing. I had expected a slightly more analytical view with some depth. Instead we get only a cursory review of small and generally insignificant issues or events which provide little in terms of understanding contemporary Mormonism.

The individual anecdotes shared by the author don't do much to tell the story of contemporary mormonism, but rather simply share one or two obscure examples of a particular person's weirdness. That may not be the best way to present a whole movement and diverse group of people. Bushman's tendency toward criticism instead of a more unbiased reporting of these issues is also surprising to me. There appears to be some effort being made to compensate for her own membership by avoiding too much positive support and taking a more critical view of things than one would expect.

Aside from the author's strange and superficial approach to this subject, the book is also quite out of date. Much as changed in the past 15 years in terms of leadership structure, leadership style and emphasis, the global nature of the church, gospel learning curriculum, global and local service mandates and much more.

I will look elsewhere for better understanding and analysis of contemporary Mormonism.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

American voters curious about Mitt Romney's religion would do well to read Columbia University Professor Bushman's latest title. It would save the candidate from having to respond to ill-informed questioners by suggesting they look for the answer on the LDS web site. And if you are not a member of the faith, don't worry. The well-documented book's purpose is not to convert souls despite the author being a third-generation Mormon. It will inform you with no hidden agenda.

You won't learn scintillating secrets, but you also won't find controversies buried. Emotion-laden subjects ripe for outrage, such as the Mountain Meadows Massacre, the First Presidency speaking against the proposed Equal Rights Amendment or the seemingly overdue (1978) announcement that made worthy men of all races eligible for priesthood, are not glossed over. Those unfamiliar with the 177-year old religious institution could lay to rest some societal misconceptions about the modern Mormon community.

[Tracy]

Have been requested to write a review on this book.