aspect of almost every society throughout most of history, although every person has not been personally religious. Today, however, many social scientists discount the significance of religious values and ideals, and many have relegated religion to the margins of society. Just as frequently, religious people tend to discount the significance of the social sciences, especially in the study of religion. Because of this mutual distrust, it is necessary to say a few words about the connection between social science and religion.

When Enos said that he was taught by his father Jacob “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Enos 1:1), he was emphasizing not only a spiritual truth but a sociological truth as well: parents have a profound effect on the beliefs, values, and behavior of theirchildren. When Alma went with his brethren to preach to the Zoramites, he recognized that those who had been cast out of the synagogues because of their poverty had been humbled by their afflictions. They were therefore “in a preparation to hear the word” (Alma 32:5–6). Likewise, many other people have been humbled and prepared for religious experiences by social conditions such as poverty, discrimination, divorce, illness, or family conflict.

There is a close connection, therefore, between sociological and gospel principles, although this connection is not always easily discerned or recognized. Certain social principles facilitate church growth, marital adjustment, or physical and mental health, for example, just as spiritual principles also affect other aspects of life.

God is the great scientist! He knows all scientific principles—biological, physical, chemical, psychological, and