The LDS scholar has citizenship with God and a passport in the world

(From my original Blogspot)

Neal A Maxwell, the former LDS apostle, addressed the behavioral sciences department at BYU years ago.

"The LDS scholar has his citizenship in the kingdom, but carries his passport into the professional world—not the other way around."

As always, brilliantly and succinctly stated.

"When we seek to communicate, however, with those in the world of scholarship, we must speak to them and communicate with them “after the manner of their language.” (See D&C 1:24.) We can, as many LDS behavioral scientists have done, develop our skills in that 'tongue' without coming to prefer it and without losing the mother tongue of faith."

Some basic truths we DO know from gospel teachings that relate to behavioral work:

• 1. That man is created in the image of God.

• 2. That environment and heredity by themselves do not account for all human differences.

• 3. That free agency is an exceedingly important element in the growth and development of individuals. (Indeed, as President Marion G. Romney has said, “the preservation of this free agency is more important than the preservation of life itself.”)

• 4. That life’s design is such that God, speaking of us, has said with reference to this mortal estate, “Let us prove them herewith” (see Abr. 3:25), a truth that is rich with implications.

• 5. That life’s Divine design also involves “an opposition in all things.” (See 2 Ne. 2:11–16.)

• 6. That this is a world of law, the breaking or keeping of which brings misery or blessings, respectively.

• 7. That “almost all men” misuse authority and power. (See D&C 121:39.)

These ideas are important in helping people learn and grow, respect themselves, and make choices. I encourage you to read the full article below.

--

Reference:

See his full article at: http://www.lds.org/ensign/1976/07/some-thoughts-on-the-gospel-and-the-behavioral-sciences?lang=eng