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John G. Turner

Professor of Religious Studies and History at George Mason University. Author of 'Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet' and a biography of Brigham Young.

Top 5 podcasts with John G. Turner

Ranked by the Snipd community
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14 snips
May 30, 2025 • 2h 29min

Treasure Digging & the First Vision - Joseph Smith Podcast Ep. 2 w/ John Turner | Ep. 2026

In this insightful discussion, historian John G. Turner, author of "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet," unpacks the complexities of Joseph Smith's life. He examines the evolving accounts of Smith's First Vision, revealing the cultural influences that shaped his religious narrative. The conversation also delves into Smith's treasure digging escapades, questioning the authenticity of his spiritual claims. Turner's secular perspective challenges listeners to rethink the intersections of faith, folklore, and historical evidence surrounding Smith's experiences.
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12 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 2h 54min

Martin & Lucy Harris and the Lost 116 Pages of the Book of Mormon - Dr. John G. Turner | Ep. 2028

In this insightful discussion, historian John Turner, known for his work on Joseph Smith, delves into the fascinating story of the lost 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript. He examines Martin and Lucy Harris's roles, the complex translation process, and the implications of belief and skepticism within early Mormon history. Turner shares theories about the translation methods and the ethical dilemmas surrounding Joseph Smith's claims. This deep dive reveals the intricate dynamics of faith and the psychological elements driving religious movements.
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9 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 1h 6min

A Candid Portrait of Joseph Smith - A Conversation with John Turner

Historian John Turner, a professor at George Mason University, dives deep into his new biography of Joseph Smith, exploring the complexities of Smith’s life and legacy. He discusses how Smith's challenging childhood forged his resilience as a leader. The conversation touches on the controversial golden plates and the varying accounts of witnesses. Additionally, Turner examines the dynamics of polygamy and Emma Smith's crucial role in Joseph’s life, unveiling the intricate interplay between faith, ambition, and historical narrative.
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Jun 20, 2025 • 1h 55min

Did the Book of Mormon Witnesses Really See Golden Plates? - John Turner Part 5 | Ep. 2033

Historian John Turner, author of "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet," dives deep into the complex testimonies of the Three and Eight Witnesses of the golden plates. He examines whether their encounters were physical or visionary, raising intriguing questions about the nature of their experiences. The discussion touches on personal struggles, social influences on belief, and the challenges faced by early figures like Martin Harris. Furthermore, Turner navigates the evolving narratives and skepticism surrounding these foundational testimonies in Mormon history.
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Jul 3, 2025 • 1h 34min

Book of Mormon: Historical or 19th Century Text? - John Turner Pt. 6 | Ep. 2037

John Turner, a historian from George Mason University and author of 'Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet', dives into the multifaceted origins of the Book of Mormon. The discussion tackles the authenticity of its witnesses, weighing claims of deception against visionary experiences. Turner also explores the historical credibility of the text, linking it to archaeological evidence and the implications of viewing it as a 19th-century creation. Thought-provoking theological reflections on divine revelation and epistemic humility enrich this critical examination.

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