Mormonism 101 201

In April 2000, Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson brought out a new book designed to provide "an accessible, informative introduction to Mormonism." They titled the book Mormonism 101 (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Books, ISBN 0-8010-6335-3). McKeever and Johnson have quite a bit of experience sharing information about the LDS Church, as they are both affiliated with the Mormonism Research Ministry (El Cajon, California). At first glance it would appear that their credentials are appropriate to the stated purpose of the book, and that the reader is in for an authoritative discussion of the Church's beliefs and practices.

Appearances can be deceiving, however. Like so many other books that speak out against the LDS Church (often called anti-Mormon books), Mormonism 101 often resorts to misrepresentation, selective citations, and poor scholarship to show how members of the LDS Church are lost souls, deceived by their history and their leaders and destined for eternal damnation unless they see the light.

Unfortunately, not every reader of Mormonism 101 will have the background and understanding necessary to see the book for what it is--one more attempt to stereotype members of the LDS Church and relegate them to the historical boneyard of misguided religions. Recognizing that some readers may be misled, Kevin Graham, a member of the Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research (FAIR), spearheaded a project with other FAIR members to do a chapter-by-chapter analysis and refutation of the materials presented in Mormonism 101. This is the genesis and background behind Mormonism 201. The undertaking was massive for the volunteer FAIR members, and it continues to be a work in progress. (Oh, how we have wished--more than once--for a paid, professional staff of apologists such as those associated with the Mormonism Research Ministry and dozens of other such groups that make their paychecks as professional anti-Mormons. Such is not the case, however.)

The following is the chapter outline for Mormonism 101. In the third column you can find the responses for the associated chapter, written by various members of FAIR. Take your time; read through those papers that interest you. We hope you enjoy the effort.

FAIR is not owned, controlled by or affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All research and opinions provided on this site are the sole responsibility of FAIR, and should not be interpreted as official statements of LDS doctrine, belief or practice.

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Last Updated April 21, 2007
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