New Sociological Study on American Religion: what is says about Mormonism

From LDSpublic affairs
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A new and important study of religion in America has, among other things, a good deal to say about [the church]. American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us, yields valuable insight to the nature and social effects of American religion. [T]he study's authors affirm that in many respects, religion in America exerts a healthy influence upon American society — one that typically promotes generosity, trust, neighborliness, and civic engagement. The study data reveals that [Mormons] play a conspicuous part in American religious life.

Among the study's findings related to Latter-day Saints are the following:

• Mormons are among the most devout religious groups in the country.
• Mormons are among those most likely to keep their childhood faith as adults.
• Mormons are unusually giving.
• Mormons are relatively friendly to other religious groups.
• Mormons are among the most likely to believe that one true religion exists, but also that those outside their faith can attain salvation or reach "heaven."

Robert D. Putnam and David E. Campbell, American Grace: How Religious Divides and Unites Us (New York: Simon and Schuster, 2010).

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The above was excerpted from Major New Study of Religion Has Much to Say About Mormons, lds.org public affairs