Prolegomenon

Welcome. As the title indicates, through this blog I intend to offer my rough musings on Mormon philosophy and theology. The blog title is a bit misleading, however; I also hope to blog about ethics and culture as these categories relate to Mormonism. There may even be some scriptural exegesis, but I am somwhat weak in this area. I hope to improve as a scriptural exegete as time passes. Nevertheless, I find Mormon philosophy and theology to be the most fascinating subfields in Mormonism, so most of my thoughts will center here.

At the recent Sunstone West symposium here in Claremont CA, I participated in a panel on a class I am taking at Claremont Graduate University entitled, “Mormonism and Christian Theology.” A member of that class (also on the panel) wisely pointed out what he called the “fallacy of the native exegete.” This is the limited perspective that a member or strong advocate of a particular organization or position has as a consequence of being so closely connected to said organization that s/he actually helps to constiutue and create the organization. Consequently, it is difficult for the member or “native” to objectively exegete his/her tradition or position. I am certain that I will not be able to fully escape this fallacy in my consideration of Mormon philosophy and theology. But neither do I think a complete escape is a good thing. I do hope, however, to be able to somehat Socratically consider philosophy and theology in my tradition, as well as the speculative possibilities.

Explore posts in the same categories: Mormon Studies, Mormon Theological Studies, Place of Theology in Mormonism

Tags: Mormon, philosophy, theology

You can comment below, or link to this permanent URL from your own site.