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Archive for December, 2011

Illustrating Mormonism is a Social Construct

12.31.2011 · Posted in Mormons

A cousin recently sent me a message via Facebook.  I’m guessing it was related to his sister giving birth to a badly deformed child that died within about four hours, but he didn’t mention that.  Anyway, here’s his message and the questions it contained: Hi [ProfXM]. I hope you are well. I’ve had the chance ...

Interesting Jewish/Mormon story in the New Yorker!

12.28.2011 · Posted in Judaism, Literature

I’m sure I don’t have to tell you guys how much the Mormons love to compare themselves with the Jews (or, if you do need a hint, read this post). This comparison is usually kind of one-sided — Mormons love to contemplate the parallels, and the Jews are (usually) blissfully unaware of their Utah-based secret ...

Negotiating Mormon Identity – In the Airport

12.22.2011 · Posted in Appearances, Mormons, Utah

My wife and I just flew to Utah with our 2 year-old son to spend the holidays with family.  Having lived the last 10 years outside of Utah, we’re quite familiar with traveling to Utah for the holidays.  The many trips over the last 10 years have developed what is probably a stereotype, but as ...

Pat Bagley cracks me up.

12.17.2011 · Posted in Humor

And Jon Huntsman wins Top Tweet of 2011: “To be clear. I believe in evolution and trust scientists on global warming. Call me crazy.” That’s all. Views: 308 ...

Infantilizing anyone?

12.15.2011 · Posted in General Conference, Women

Y’know, I don’t want to be all about criticizing the CoJCoL-dS. I’d like to have some balance, like this post outlining positive things about Mormonism — because there are plenty of them. But I accidentally followed a link on this Mormon feminist post leading to a conference talk that made my jaw drop. I somehow ...

The Economic Role of Mothers

12.13.2011 · Posted in Economics, Parenting, Women

A Dec 2011 APA study is making its way through the news suggesting that mothers who work part-time are happier and healthier than stay-at-homes and full-time mothers, and they make good parents.  A good summary of the study can be found here.  Regarding the “mommy wars” or the debate in white feminist circles between working ...

Criticism, Power, and Validation

12.07.2011 · Posted in Abuse, Advice, Power

If a subordinate gives you negative feedback, it often implies a bigger compliment. It means that people trust you because you conduct yourself with integrity. Otherwise, your subordinates wouldn’t dare to speak up. Good for you. Of course, I would rather be praised than criticized but when somebody over whom you have power is honest ...

“I’m a Mormon” Campaign Money Could Help A LOT of Homeless Families

12.05.2011 · Posted in Guest Authors

As the token former Mormon in my liberal Seattle neighborhood, I’ve been getting a lot of questions lately about the mega “I’m a Mormon” ad campaign that’s been popping up on TV spots, billboards, bus ads, Internet promotions and other media across the country. While Church officials deny that the media blitz has anything to ...