Sunday in Outer Blogness: Boundaries Edition!

This week Rob explained one reason outsiders have trouble understanding Mormon experiences: others don’t always get that Mormons have a different idea about boundaries. Take, for example, a Mormon mom who got angry that someone politely declined her kid’s proselytizing effort (because — if it’s a kid then politeness dictates that you have to join their religion…?), or perhaps these Utah neighbors “helping” when a neighbor’s patriotism display wasn’t good enough. Regarding LDS church history, there’s the annoying insistence on labelling disagreement “offense”.

Of course, perhaps it goes both ways. People can’t stop talking about those magical Mormon undies! Plus there’s that voyeuristic Mormon musical that people still can’t get enough of!

Then there are some personal (and work-related) stories that people have shared willingly. (Can you believe that Leah won a beauty pageant in that dress?)

Outside Mormonism, has Obama’s birth certificate curiosity gone from legal concerns to something else?

Should we build bridges instead? Let’s cross some borders! Or examine the limits of the law.

In philosophy, consider the benefits of being able to admit it when you’re wrong (it’s so easy to be wrong and biased!) as opposed to eschewing self-critical and introspective insight (counterpoint: reasons to just believe). Semi-related: you can apply the scriptures to anything if you’re bullish enough.

In race and gender, those wacky Mormons are at it again! In parenting, the impossibility of a stress-free birthday party (even when you don’t have too many kids or too many moms).

In US history, learn about Stonewall and Mormon reactions. In politics, even the Pentagon thinks America’s priorities are a little skewed. Liberals and conservatives: still don’t understand each other.

In theology, discussion continues on the War in Heaven and the role of Satan, Adam, and other good guys and bad guys from the Bible.

In book projects, some people are planning a book of advice for people leaving Mormonism — have a look and see if you have some input to contribute! Jana Reiss’s book cover is ready to go. In other media, here’s an interesting radio panel on Mormons and environmentalism.

Happy reading, and have a great week!