Four Corners
November 1, 2021
Popular culture often uses demonic themes for shock value, with many modern commentators denying the existence of Satan or demons outright. But believers benefit from understanding the reality of demonic influence, and clues to the nature of that influence are found in the demons’ own words in scripture.
You’ve probably heard somewhere – from someone – that Utahns are far more likely to be depressed. You probably have not, however, heard about the broader picture of research that contradicts that especially popular Scary Story about Utah.
The narrative that teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ are causing suicidality among LGBT youth is unsubstantiated. New research, showing a negative association between Church membership and suicidality in these youth, suggests the possibility that the opposite is true.
In parallel to the “uniquely drawn to pornography” story is the “uniquely drawn to plastic surgery” tale about Utah. Once again, the preponderance of the available evidence – especially when carefully reviewed – isn’t so convenient and favorable to this increasingly popular narrative.
Some still like to claim that Utah has a uniquely high rate of porn use in the nation—purportedly related to cultural norms that “suppress” and “shame” sexual expression. This popular story only survives out of widespread ignorance over the science of pornography itself.
I sit down with several friends to discuss Texas’s recent abortion law. We break down common stances, how to maintain a civil dialogue, and the details of the new legislation.
It’s common to see people focus almost exclusively on advocating “love” or defending “truth” in the LGBTQ+ / Latter-day Saint conversation. It’s far less common to see people holding both – a practice that involves a lot more stretching, discomfort, and potential breakthroughs for us all.
Unity of heart may be possible even when visions temporarily differ. But continuing to value and strive for growing unity of mind is also crucial to the body of Christ.
In advance of the likely approval and administration of COVID-19 vaccination to many younger children, it’s worth revisiting an important question in pharmacological research generally: How long does evidence gathering need to extend in order to deem an intervention “safe” or “effective”?
Ben chats with a couple great friends about our favorite talks, lessons, and miracles from General Conference!
