An analysis of the notion of truth in the theology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Abstract

This dissertation examines the notion of truth within the context of the theological framework of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Chapter 1 introduces the topic by focusing on the need to study the Latter-day Saints, giving particular attention to the numerical growth of the Church, the financial affluence of the Church, and the political influence of the Church. Attention is also given to the history of the notion of truth in the history of philosophy and the methodology of the study. Chapter 2 offers a full examination of the notion of truth within the theological framework of the Church. Specific attention is given to Latter-day Saint scriptures, presidents, publications, and scholarship.

Chapter 3 examines the doctrines of God and continuing revelation within the Latter-day Saint tradition. Taking these two doctrines into account, the chapter then investigates the historical and theological issues surrounding Latter-day Saints and plural marriage.

Chapter 4 addresses the points originally raised in the thesis. Information from the second and third chapters is examined and combined, conclusions are drawn, and areas for further study are explored.

This work contends that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints cannot make the claim to hold to absolute truth, thereby seriously questioning the ability of members of the Church to have any hope in their beliefs. This dissertation further argues that Latter-day Saints should be considered epistemological relativists and fideists.