lement is a peer-reviewed journal and is the official publication for the Society for Mormon Philosophy and Theology, SMPT. Past and current editions of element are available online with the support of Western Carolina University and print copies of current journals are available through Greg Kofford Books, www.gregkofford.com. The Society brings together scholars and others who share an interest in studying the teachings and texts of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It facilitates the sharing and discussion of work by sponsoring an annual conference, and publishing this journal. The purpose of the Society for Mormon Philosophy and Theology is to promote disciplined reflection on Latter-day Saint beliefs with constructive engagement with the broader tradition of philosophy and theology. All its publications, conferences, and other forums for discussion will take seriously both the commitments of faith and the standards of scholarship. More information on SMPT, can be found at http://www.smpt.org.
About the Society for Mormon Philosophy and Theology
The Society for Mormon Philosophy and Theology has been formed at a time when interest in Mormon Studies is blossoming. In the latter part of the twentieth century, there was an increasing recognition of the importance of the Latter-day Saints within the history of the United States, especially the history of the West, and the history of constitutional interpretation regarding freedom of religion. There was also a recognition of the interesting position that the Latter-day Saints occupy in the landscape of American culture: so unique that they were violently expelled from the U.S. in the 19th century, and yet reflective of many deep-running currents in the American soul.
As The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints becomes an increasingly global church, SMPT calls attention to the Latter-day Saints’ distinctive theology, and its philosophical context and implications. Moreover, it provides a forum for Latter-day Saints and other interested scholars to explore in a disciplined way the message of LDS scriptures and prophets. The Society holds an annual conference, and publishes a journal entitled Element: a Journal of Mormon Philosophy and Theology.