balance is often difficult place to reach in our lives... where does the Mormon/LDS culture put people (influence) them on this?


Is(n't) the Uber-Judgmentalism of the stereo-typical TBM related to this factor?


It's my opinion that many LDS are devoid of what is otherwise normal empathy, kindness, being considerate.

your thoughts/comments?



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 08/02/2015 03:54PM by GNPE.

Too much emotionalism.

Too little empathy.

Mormonism has a heightened emotional atmosphere. Truth itself is determined by emotions not facts. Self-esteem, self-worth, the nature of God, right and wrong, who is and isn't acceptable are all based on emotional factors. Do you FEEL the spirit with that person? Does the spirit testify of God's presence in the temple? Do you feel you or anyone else has sinned by whatever behavior was just partaken of? Do things that normal humans take in stride make you FEEL offended? (Tank tops, tea, grocery stores open on Sunday ...)

That being said, it's hard to empathize with others for many, if not most, Mormons. They are too busy earning their salvation, worrying about tiny details, trying to impress others with their righteousness and feeling like "If I have to work this hard - you better too or I'll judge you." They are under constant scrutiny by themselves and their church so that doesn't really set the stage for them to be understanding, empathetic or accepting of others. Some Mormons overcome this attitude but they are good in spite of being Mormon, not because of it.

Wow, you've put into words how I feel!

Members look to the cult to tell them how to feel and react. Sometimes they must hold in feelings and other times they're expected to emote. They can't be authentic. They're forced to be fakes.

I find true empathy is something I am trying to acquire post-mormonism. As a TBM I viewed others' "trials" with pity that they didn't know about the "plan of happiness." Take that miserable plan out of the picture, and I feel the pain, loss of loved ones, and uncertainty about the future with much more understanding.

Too freakin much!

I was obliged to attend F&T today.

Three out of thirteen testifiers shed tears.

And those who shed tears do it during every testimony. As if it is a trick

Too much emotionalism where its needed and too little where it is needed. In other words, Mormon emotionalism is misplaced and out of balance.

"culture" and "LDS" should never be used in the same sentence.

Seriously. And when it comes to religion the answer is definitely too much. What else explains that you can get a TBM to confront and acknowledge facts about their church's history and doctrine and then the next minute they bear their testimony based upon what they feel?