What Is Doctrine, vol. 1: A Latter-Day Saint Systematic Theology
NP, nd [2023]. Paperback. 236pp. The term doctrine is commonplace in Latter-day Saint parlance. However, beyond this point not much is understood about it. No one seems to have a good idea, view, or consistent theory of doctrine. For instance, is Faith a doctrine or a principle? How about the Law of Chastity? Individuals who take any gospel concept or term do not seem able to consistently give a satisfactory account of their status—a doctrine, principle, or application. But even if one could, successfully sorting them is one thing, but having a definition, theory, and overall account of what makes x a doctrine, principle, or application is something else entirely. Indeed, that the Atonement is a principle rather than either a doctrine or an application shouldn’t be arbitrary.
Additionally, to our collective detriment, too often the terms doctrine and principles are used interchangeably throughout the Church. Members and leaders alike use the term in ways that seem to indicate that it is fundamental, critical, and the underlying backbone of our faith. Nevertheless, what it is seems to allude even the sincerest seeker of truth.
So, what is doctrine? Or, put differently, what makes something a doctrine? The purpose of this book is to answer the metaphysical question of doctrine: in virtue of what is x a doctrine? That is, it seeks to give a unifying theory of doctrine. From this standpoint a doctrinal model is constructed. Consequently, this model of doctrine then serves as a systematic theology that populates consistent and precise doctrines that will derive principles, and principles to applications. Thus, the book gives an account of doctrine and then demonstrates which doctrines derive which principles, and which principles derive which applications.
Situated in the framework of the Church of Jesus Christ, the content of this book is unique. No other work does what is being put forward in this volume. The key finding of this book is an articulation of the necessary and sufficient conditions for doctrine. Because of this, a systematic theology can be constructed in which it is clear what doctrines, principles, and applications are and are not.
Finally, this book is not presented nor intended to be the final say on what makes something a doctrine. Rather, it is the impetus to building a more consistent, rational, and coherent discussion around this most important concept. New. Item #36864
ISBN: 9798385973071
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