So Americans don’t view Latter-day Saints favorably. What that means? Does it matter? | Episode 277

Mormon Land

It seems to be a common human trait to wonder how others see us. Who among us is most likable? Most respected? Most trusted? It is, of course, of particular value to those in the minority, perceived as outcasts or threats or newcomers to the scene. This may be especially pertinent to faith groups. A new poll from the Pew Research Center found that respondents viewed Catholics, Jews and mainline Protestants more positively than they do members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Evangelical Christians, Muslims and even atheists also scored higher than Mormons, as they are referred to throughout the survey. “A quarter of Americans say they hold very or somewhat unfavorable views of Mormons,” the Pew report stated, “while 15% express favorable opinions.” On this week’s show, Brigham Young University political science professor Quin Monson, himself a pollster and co-author of “Seeking the Promised Land: Mormons and American Politics,” discusses those perceptions, whether they have changed through the years and if it should be a cause for concern in the missionary-minded faith.