Now, this is turning into a discussion of the religion, but frankly, I’ve never had a single Mormon I know ever agree with or defend Polygamy. And I’ve never seen any mormon here at FR defend Polygamy.
I know that there was a history of Polygamy in the Mormon church. There was a history of Polygamy at the start of the Jewish people as well. I don’t say that to compare, I say that to know the historical reference.
I know there is still Polygamy, that it is practiced by people who believe it is still the correct interpretation of their Mormon faith. But I don’t hold every Mormon responsible for that belief.
There are people who believe nearly what I believe, who sincerely believe Catholicism is a cult, and of the devil. These are not fringe characters. Their opinion has some weight and is shared by a minor but not insignificant population of believers. If I were Catholic, I would not hang out in a political forum dominated by evangelicals who followed Hagee, or the earliar practices of the Bob Jones University crowd.
Mormonism is on the fringe for me. I won’t defend it as a Christian religion. I will defend it against some attacks, simply because of the people I know personally who practice the faith. You aren’t likely to see me expressing the same level of concern for attacks against Scientology for example.
On the other hand, I’ll try very hard not to bring Scientology up in a political context. I love chatting about religion — but I find those discussions are a little better in person, where you can include emotion and get feedback. I’ll be happy to spell out my beliefs, but I find whenever I MENTION other beliefs, I invariably cause problems.
For example, in this thread, I believe I have reason now to apologize to Mormons, Catholics, Methodists, and probably a few other religious groups as well.
My very dear Mormon friend convinced me that my opposition to polygamy wasn't thought through, and converted me to accepting that there are ways it could work.
I won't name names, I won't go down that rabbit hole again.
I agree with most of what you said. I have a nutty uncle who belongs to the black helicopter crowd when it comes to religion. All religions except his are doomed!
I don't know any Mormons; I do know some Seventh Day Adventists and I know very little about their faith. I just know that they go to church on Saturday. I love them dearly and I would never bring up their religion.
Its a lot easier to discuss and argue religion with complete strangers on the web. In person is good too as long as things don't get personal.
As for Scientology, I think that religion is whacked. Made up by a weirdo. :)
You'd been get another seeing eye dog; for THAT one will lead you in front of a bus!