Church Quote by Daniel Walker Howe
“George Smith shows how many of the prophet’s followers embraced plural marriage during a period when the LDS Church was emphatically denying the practice … [and he tells this in] a lucid writing style.”
About This Quote
Source Book: American Religious History, 2021
Historical analysis reveals that LDS members practiced plural marriage despite official denial, highlighting complex belief‑action gaps.
In simple terms: Members acted contrary to official doctrine.
Recognize gaps between stated policy and actual behavior.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- church leadership
- family law
- sociological research
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do institutions reconcile doctrine with practice?
- What drives individuals to defy official bans?
Official narratives may oversimplify reality.