The Basis of Mormon Political Philosophy?

[_moksha]

D&C 82:22
And now, verily I say unto you, and this is wisdom, make unto yourselves friends with the mammon of unrighteousness, and they will not destroy you.

Is this the basis for the political philosophy of the majority of Mormons? Making friends with the mammon of unrighteousness would fit right in with Republicanism.

Did this political allegiance to the "right" begin with the President Joseph F. Smith? Or was it earlier when the Church was threatened with destruction?

[_Brackite]

Hi Moksha,

What is your definition of "Republicanism"?

[_moksha]

I realize that Republicanism can be a broad term, and describing it is a little bit like describing a platypus. It can include anything from a party of single interest issues that have been claimed by Republicans, such as unlimited guns and ammo freedom, to no abortions under any circumstances. I see it most as the representative party for those top ten percenters of the income distribution charts, as well those who feel they have similar interests. It is also the party of those who felt the Supreme Court was overstepping its bounds when it struck down segregation and the party of those who do not wish for everyone to have health care.

[_The Nehor]

D&C 82:22
And now, verily I say unto you, and this is wisdom, make unto yourselves friends with the mammon of unrighteousness, and they will not destroy you.

Is this the basis for the political philosophy of the majority of Mormons? Making friends with the mammon of unrighteousness would fit right in with Republicanism.

Did this political allegiance to the "right" begin with the President Joseph F. Smith? Or was it earlier when the Church was threatened with destruction?

That's not a political philosophy. It's basic social advice. Don't make enemies.

[_moksha]

That's not a political philosophy. It's basic social advice. Don't make enemies.

If that is not it, what is up with Mormons and Republican politics, or even Mormons and right-wing groups like the John Birch Society, The Freeman Institute and The Eagle Forum?

[_The Nehor]

That's not a political philosophy. It's basic social advice. Don't make enemies.

If that is not it, what is up with Mormons and Republican politics, or even Mormons and right-wing groups like the John Birch Society, The Freeman Institute and The Eagle Forum?

I don't think that supporting the John Birch Society and the rest was making friends with wickedness....at least not intentionally.

Here's what is quoted in the latest Institute manual, written by Joseph Fielding Smith:

“The commandment of the Lord that the saintsshould make themselves ‘friends with the mammon of unrighteousness,’ seems to be a hard saying when not properly understood. It is not intended that in making friends of the ‘mammon of unrighteousness’ that the brethren were to partake with them in their sins; to receive them to their bosoms, intermarry with them and . . . come down to their level. They were to so live that peace with their enemies might be assured. They were to treat them kindly, be friendly with them as far as correct and virtuous principles would permit, but never to swear with them or drink and carouse with them. If they could allay prejudice and show a willingness to trade with and show a kindly spirit, it might help to turn them
away from their bitterness. Judgment was to be left with the Lord.” (Smith, Church History and Modern Revelation, 1:323.)

[_zzyzx]

So you believe Repugnantcans are unrighteous? I can understand that.

[_The Nehor]

So you believe Repugnantcans are unrighteous? I can understand that.

Never heard of them. If you're textually challenged and saying that Republicans are unrighteous, then no. My parents are Republicans and are two of the most righteous people I know. Fun too. I tend towards being a Libertarian myself. I've known righteous Republicans and Democrats and refuse to see party affiliation (or even ideology affiliation) as indicative of righteousness (or unrighteousness).

Among LDS I think a desire for Zion and accepting Christ as king as described in the scriptures is required but I don't care much about what kind of political affiliation we have until then.

[_Brackite]

Hi Moksha,

Thank You for your definition of Republicanism. While I don't really exactly agree with your definition of Republicanism, I don't really believe that the Celestial Forum is exactly a proper place to debate politics.

Take Care!