"With their later theories, Methodism, Swedenborgianism,—especially in its view of the future state,—and Transcendentalism are curiously intermingled. And, finally, we can easily discern, in their doctrine of affinity of minds and sympathy of souls, the leaven of that faith which, beginning with the Mesmer, and progressing through the Rochester Rappers, and the Poughkeepsie Seer, threatens to extend wherever the susceptible nervous temperament becomes the characteristic of the race."[176:A]
According to this learned author, Mormonism is a conglomeration of all the isms from Adam to the present time.
The predominant characteristics of Mormonism are, the concentration of power in one individual,—the entire unity of church and state,—and the united efforts of the people and their leaders to establish and maintain a kingdom, spiritual and temporal, which shall spread over the whole earth, and result in the complete subjugation and subordination of all other kingdoms, principalities, and powers.
The establishment of polygamy among such a people, was no difficult matter. It was but an easy step from materialism to sensualism. Here the passions and lusts harmonize with the love of power and dominion.
The following toasts were given at a celebration on the 24th of July,[176:B] 1856. Therein the Mormons speak for themselves.
"Mormonism. A plurality of worlds, a plurality of gods, and a plurality of wives, with all truth in all eternity."
"President Brigham Young. With the keys of heaven and earth to open and shut, and all Israel to sanction."
FOOTNOTES:
[157:A] Jour. of Dis. Vol. I. p. 50.