How the Internet Has Transformed Mormonism Over the Last 25 Years
In this episode, I reflect on how profoundly the internet has reshaped Mormonism and the LDS Church over the past 25 years.
From the rise of social media and ex-Mormon influencers to viral documentaries, podcasts, Reddit communities, and YouTube commentary, the digital world has fundamentally changed how Mormonism is discussed, criticized, defended, and experienced.
I explore key themes including:
The dominance of ex-Mormon and post-Mormon online communities
The rise of influencer-driven discourse about Mormonism on YouTube, TikTok, and podcasts
Major cultural “Mormon moments” amplified by the internet (Prop 8, CES Letter, Book of Mormon Musical, LGBTQ+ policy shifts, and more)
The LDS Church’s often reactive approach to digital culture
The growth of liberal, progressive, and nuanced Mormon communities online
Shifts in apologetics, scholarship, and institutional messaging
The changing global perception and branding of the LDS Church
This talk was originally prepared for the Sunstone Symposium and continues to evolve as I gather more perspectives.
I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments—how do you think the internet has changed Mormonism?
Based on: https://johndehlin.substack.com/p/how-the-internet-has-changed-mormonism
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