Abstract
A questionnaire was used to determine to what degree members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints endorse doctrinal statements concerning foreknowldge and determinism. A factor analysis of the questionnaire results confirmed lay constructs about an apparent polarization between members who hold strictly literal interpretations of omniscience and omnipotence as opposed to those who hold interpretations further removed from mainstream Christendom but whose positions are validated by LDS doctrine. The relation of demographic variables to the constructs was explored. The existence of simultaneously held conflicting beliefs was confirmed. Some implications for LDS therapists are discussed. A historical overview of the LDS debate over topics associated with fatalism and free will is included, noting the implications of doctrines related to God's foreknowldge and suggesting soft determinism as a synthesis of otherwise incompatible doctrinal positions.
Recommended Citation
Broadbent, M. Ardell
(2000)
"Factor Analysis of Theological Constructs Related to Fatalism and Free Will,"
Issues in Religion and Psychotherapy: Vol. 25:
No.
1, Article 3.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/irp/vol25/iss1/3