Four (or Five) Types of Mormons? - Are LDS Church Members Secularizing? | Ep. 2074

31 snips

Oct 23, 2025

Alex Bass, a data scientist and author of the 'Mormon Metrics' blog, dives into his groundbreaking study analyzing the types of Mormons today. He identifies four groups, from Devout Traditionalists to Cultural Mormons, revealing trends like secularization and shifting beliefs. Historian Patrick Q. Mason adds depth by placing these changes in historical context and discussing the rise of Adaptive Believers. The conversation touches on declining devotion, growing acceptance of LGBTQ issues, and generational shifts, highlighting a rapidly evolving faith landscape.

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ANECDOTE

Julie Hanks Owning A Polarizing Soundbite

Julie Hanks acknowledged speaking in absolute terms about women not being equal and owned the lack of nuance.
She arranged to speak offline with critic Maddie Packer to clarify intent and build understanding.

ADVICE

Fund Rigorous Surveys, Not Snowball Samples

Build statistically valid, randomized surveys rather than snowball samples to understand Mormon diversity.
Fund and run large panels that include converts and ex-members for accurate trends.

ANECDOTE

Prop 8 Activism Left Many Feeling Empty

Beau Oyler recounted personal regret after campaigning for Prop 8 and feeling empty afterward.
That experience motivated later change in views for many members who felt disillusioned by political involvement.

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