Can Latter-day Saints ‘Mormons’ Be Politically Liberal?
It is often assumed that Latter-day Saints, commonly referred to as 'Mormons', are predominantly Republican or conservative in their political leanings. However, this stereotype does not hold up when we examine the diverse views within the community. Many practicing Latter-day Saints, like myself, identify as moderate liberals or progressives, with varying degrees of political alignment.
The Stereotype of Mitt Romney: An Outdated Assumption
The concept that being Mormon and being Republican are analogous is an outdated stereotype. Many people are surprised to learn that there are Mormons who strongly support social welfare programs, universal healthcare, and environmental protection. Furthermore, while Latter-day Saints are taught to morally oppose abortion, this doesn't necessarily mean they must support strict anti-abortion laws. The line should be drawn between moral laws and what law enforcement enforces.
Complexities of Mormon Doctrine and Modern Politics
There are indeed areas where the doctrines of the Latter-day Saints and progressive politics conflict, the most prominent one being same-sex marriage. Progressive values typically advocate for sexual equality and support same-sex marriage, whereas the posture of the LDS Church remains opposed. However, it is a mistake to assume that every liberal policy must be supported by all. Good Mormons are expected to uphold the church’s moral stance on all matters, yet the reality is that opinions and perspectives can often be more nuanced and complex.
Perception vs. Reality: Cultural Factors
The perception that Mormons must align with Republicans is often based more on cultural norms than religious principles. In many cases, these assumptions stem from public figures like Mitt Romney, whose political leanings influenced the stereotype. However, it is important to recognize that individual beliefs can vary widely, and the political affiliation of a member of the community does not define the whole.
Mormonism and Liberal Values
The modern-day revelation is a key tenet of Mormon thought, which emphasizes adaptability and the willingness to discard traditions. Not all liberal values hold true in the context of Mormonism. For instance, a true liberal strives to respect accountability, character, and mutual respect rather than indulging in entitlement or immaturity.
Personal Growth and Challenge within Mormonism
Mormonism encourages service and self-sacrifice, helping members confront their preconceived notions and biases. By engaging in service and personal growth, individuals can better understand the diverse realities of others. This process often leads to a more mature and well-rounded perspective, one that is not bound by a rigid interpretation of traditional values.
The goal within Mormonism is to come to a state of greater light, knowledge, and unity through faith, self-sacrifice, and service. This journey often involves questioning and challenging one’s liberal values, allowing for a deeper and more authentic understanding of what it means to be both progressive and faithful.
Lastly, it is important to recognize that while the LDS Church has its official stances, individual members can and do hold a variety of political views. The community is diverse, and it is unfair to pigeonhole an entire group based on a generalization or stereotype. Each member should be judged on their own beliefs and actions, not on the perceived collective opinion of their faith.
As Latter-day Saints, we should strive to embrace the complexities of our faith and our political views with openness and understanding. This allows us to live up to the true spirit of the gospel, which is about justice, mercy, and a constant striving to do what is right.