The academic study of Mormonism in the public university continues to generate interest, particularly among historians, scholars of religion, and many Latter-day Saints with academic training. This discussion focuses on the development and delivery of an “issues in Mormonism” course over a two semester period at Arizona State University. Using examples from classroom presentations, journal responses, and personal projects of the various LDS and non-LDS students in the course, we hope to illuminate some of the unique challenges of teaching Mormonism in a very large public university (especially one located in a secondary Mormon cultural region). Come find out how such a course can help both Mormons and non-Mormons develop tolerance for world-views different from their own, while also developing critical thinking skills that can serve them well inside their own religious communities.

Doe Daughtrey, Laura Bush