In this paper I argue that LDS theology provides us with an understanding of the nature of religious experience that allows for a philosophical defense of the “argument from religious experience.” This argument states that one can be justified in belief in God on the basis of one’s religious experiences. The two main problems with …
Person: Dennis Potter
Mormon Cultural Studies At UVSC: Beginning Forays
In Spring 2002, Dennis Potter and Phillip Gordon taught the first Mormon Cultural Studies class at Utah Valley State College in Orem, Utah. Cultural Studies (CS) is the field that explains how various aspects of culture (such as music, media, and literature, etc.) are used to uphold or undermine relationships of power in society. When …
‘Exploring Mormon Thought: The Attributes of God’
‘Exploring Mormon Thought: The Attributes of God’ In the first volume of a planned series of works on Mormon thought, Blake T. Ostler explores Christian and Mormon notions about God. In it, he provides an overview of the most influential Christian notions of deity, exploring themes and resources within this discourse that might be helpful …
Defending Magic: Explaining The Necessity of Ordinances
Defending Magic: Explaining The Necessity of Ordinances On their face, ordinances seem to be morally insignificant gestures that have meaning only insofar as they are symbolic. But, then, why would they be necessary for salvation? We will explore at least four separate theories, but I will argue that these theories are either (1) quite plausible, …
What Does God Write in his Franklin Planner? The Paradoxes of Providence, Prophecy, and Petitionary Prayer
What Does God Write in his Franklin Planner? The Paradoxes of Providence, Prophecy, and Petitionary Prayer Traditional theism claims that God is provident. This means that God is the supreme governor and ruler of the universe. Everything is planned out, and nothing contravenes his will. Furthermore, everything is planned out for the best. How should …
The Power of God
The Power of God It is often said that the God of the Latter-day Saints is finite. However, this is not very often conceded by Latter-day Saints themselves. Saying that God is finite seems to be a very good starting point to solving the problem of evil, on the one hand. But, on the other …
THE FUTURE OF MORMON THEOLOGY
THE FUTURE OF MORMON THEOLOGY This panel will discuss the prospects for the future of Mormon theology. The panelists will give their answers to various questions: Is the pursuit of theology worthwhile? If so, then how is it best done? What is the relationship between the four standard works and doing theology? Can there be …
THE FINITIST’S SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM OF EVIL, and THE WEEPING GOD OF MORMONISM
THE FINITIST’S SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM OF EVIL, and THE WEEPING GOD OF MORMONISM R. Dennis Potter