As for the debate on what are the strengths and weaknesses of the sect, this is quite an opinionated topic; relying a great deal on personal spiritualism, faith, and the ability to redefine and accept alternative views. Certainly, a clear strength is the ability for the religion to coalesce into a vibrant community that is active in spreading their version of the word of God. Mormonism has donanted millions of bibles to various locations, is there with aid and help during natural disasters, and has spent millions erecting churches, civic projects, and housing in the developing world. Members are often fervent in theit belief system, and tend to be more the type who live by example rather than theory -- rather than practicing their religion on Sundays and holidays, most Mormons adhere to their system 24/7. Mormonism emphasizes eduction, the family, youth programs, a healthy life style, the absence of a paid ministry and a clear sense of community and community involvement within their own community. Mormonism appeals to the positives in human nature, striving to be better ((Mormonism: Pro and Con).
However, mormonism also has clear definitions about what is right and wrong, and sees no gray area in between. Their own fervor and belief tends to clearly disallow other beliefs, almost to the point of rabid disagreement, therefore causing a certain arrogance in that Mormons must convert others. Traditional mormonism is also misogynistic -- mentioning women very rarely, and seeing their role as far different from that of the males in the Church. The very fervor of belief can also be negative in that it disallows any other form of individual...
Mormons cannot think for themselves, but must adhere to faith knowing it is right and everyone else is wrong. In some ways this is religious and social elitism -- "knowing" everyone else is wrong bodes of Germany in the 1930s. There is also, beneath the surface of this steadfast faith an element of supernaturalism that is unacceptable to many, yet central to the true believers. Mormonism also denies the very human nature of sexuality: one must be heterosexual, but not really until marriage, then have as many children as possible. Even more so than some other religions, this denies a human's own ability to grow from youth to adolescence to adulthood in a positive way that accepts the human condition as part of life (Letters to the Editor). Clearly, the decision is personal, and based on internal faith and spirituality, and whether one can believe and accept mormonism in total -- of if not, then one cannot be "part" Mormon; one is either right and a Mormon, or wrong, a member of the rest of the world.
Bibliography
Bushman, R.L. Mormonism: A Very Short Introduction. New York: Oxford University Press, 2008.
Jackson, a. Mormonism Explained: What Latter-Day Saints Teach and Practice. Wheaton, IL: Crossaway Books, 2008.
"Letters to the Editor." 7 March 1998. exmormon.org. February 2011 .
Mariottini, C. "The Mormon Church and the Clost Tribes of Israel." Frbruary 2006. Docto.claudemariottini.com. February 2011 .
"Mormonism: Pro and Con." March 2009. Mormonism: Pro and Con. .
Smith, J. "Hisoty of Joseph Smith - the Prophet." January 2011. LDS.org. February 2011 .
