The Fraud Mark Hofmann Still Perpetuates
“Murder Among the Mormons” highlights how Mark Hofmann perpetuated a narrative about transparency in The Church of Jesus Christ. Though Hofmann was stopped, that problematic narrative lingers.
Recent
Read More
A Short History of Social Media Bans
Conservatives are feeling singled out and targeted on social media. But the history of bans across major platforms confirms a more complicated picture.
Why A National Museum of American Religion Might Help Heal Our National Divide
Rather than a source of continued fracture and division, could a deeper appreciation of religion’s place in U.S. history become a way to bring Americans of different perspectives together?
Bites of the Best Books: March 2021
This month, passages about the most potent moral figure in Western culture, the influences on Augustine,
and the enduring wisdom of the prophet Jeremiah.
The Witness of Women
The Jewish holiday of Purim which is celebrated today, honors Queen Esther, who risked the wrath of her Persian husband-king to save her people. This essay is a tribute to women who have risked much to witness both anciently and in our day.
Religious Resonances in The Weeknd’s Super Bowl Halftime Show
White robes, scriptural references, and a gospel choir—all center stage at this most recent Super Bowl. What’s going on?
A Plea to Gun Owners: Have Compassion and Support Common-Sense Regulations
The Second Amendment to the US Constitution talks about the right to bear arms but also talks about a well-regulated militia. It’s time to talk about how compromise can enable the Second Amendment for the good of all.
Zero Population Growth Isn’t the Answer, My Friend
Zero population growth was the rave in the 1960s and 1970s. I almost got caught up in it myself. As I look at my family today, I thank God I didn’t. Surprisingly, it’s still a thing today.
Building Israel: The First Few Millennia Are Always Hardest
An institutional lens is useful for thinking about Israel as the unfolding “Kingdom of God,” since it is a durable, multifaceted social structure that has been important for thousands of years.
A Message to Parents Overwhelmed about Screen Time
It’s true there are some real dangers online for children. But we can make things worse as parents by getting so stressed and overwhelmed about media that we forget to help our children learn to engage online in positive ways.
My Wife The Genius
Benjamin Pacini discusses doing what you can to promote what you believe is true and good. Listen wherever you get your podcasts.
What A Latter-day Saint Learned about Mr. Joe Biden Through Decades of Working on Capitol Hill
I remember times when we would be in a meeting … and Mr. Biden would get up and leave because he wanted to be at home every night to tuck in his children.