2010 – Call For Papers

Society for Mormon Philosophy and Theology Seventh Annual Meeting
March 25–27, 2010
Utah Valley University
Orem, Utah

The Society for Mormon Philosophy and Theology invites papers on any aspect of Mormon belief, including its philosophical ramifications. We particularly encourage submissions on this year’s theme.

Theme: “The Measure of Their Creation—Theological Anthropology”

Christians generally share the belief that humans are children of God, made in his image. However, this belief takes a distinctive and radical form as it is understood by Latter-day Saints. On the one hand humans are much more like God, in several important respects, than on the traditional Christian view. On the other hand, Mormons take a more positive view of human embodiment and finitude. We will explore LDS teaching on the nature of human beings, with its implications and questions it raises, including comparison with other Christian views. We will also consider how human nature’s various aspects reflect a divine intention or purpose, “the measure of its creation” (D&C 88:19). Possible topics falling under this theme include:

Premortal existence
The image of God
Anthropomorphism vs. theomorphism
Spirit birth and creation of humans
Human participation in the planning and creation of Earth
Personal identity and/or agency on an eternal time scale
“Natural”, or carnal humanity
The relationship between the human spirit and body
The meaning and value of embodiment
Original sin and original innocence
Human limitation, brokenness, or disability
Materiality of spirits
Resurrection and resurrected bodies
Human perfectability, including theosis, or becoming like God
Eternal significance of the human family
Submission deadline: December 1st, 2009

The Society welcomes submissions by students; at least one program slot is set aside for an outstanding student paper. Students should indicate student status.

Authors will be notified of acceptance by January 5th, 2010.

For more information, visit our web site at http://www.smpt.org/