Believe Quote by Thomas Ferguson
“I believe that Judaism was an improvement on polytheism; Christianity was an improvement on Judaism (to some degree and in some departments only); that Protestantism is an improvement on Catholicism; that Mormonism is an improvement on Protestantism. So I give Joseph Smith credit as an innovator and as a smart fellow.”
About This Quote
The quote outlines a view of religious evolution as a series of improvements, assigning credit to Joseph Smith as an innovator.
In simple terms: Religion seen as progressive upgrades, with Smith noted as inventive.
Key Takeaway
Consider how ideas build on predecessors.
Themes
religion
evolution
innovation
comparative theology
progress
historical analysis
Mood
analytical
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
comparative
When to use this quote
- academic discussion
- interfaith dialogue
- education
- personal belief formation
- critical analysis
Key Concepts
theology
historical development
comparative religion
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria define “improvement” in faith?
- How do cultural contexts affect religious change?
A Different Perspective
The view may oversimplify complex traditions and ignore internal diversity.
![“Since Oliver Cowdery was born in 1806 and was in Poultney from 1809 to 1825, he was resident in Poultney from 3 years of age until he was 19 years of age - 16 years in all. And these years encompassed the publication of View of the Hebrews, in 1822 [1823] and 1825. His three little half sisters…” quote by Thomas Ferguson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70f/thomas-ferguson-45184_age_since-oliver-cowdery-was-born-in-1806-an_2387414.jpg)
