Historian who studied the Book of Mormon witnesses and the documentary evidence for their testimonies.
history
Degree
PhD, ancient history, University of California, Berkeley1
Richard Lloyd Anderson holds a BA in history with honors from Brigham Young University, a JD from Harvard Law School, an MA in Greek from BYU, and a PhD in ancient history from University of California, Berkeley.
Richard Lloyd Anderson — Conversations with Mormon Historians
Brigham Young University Religious Studies Center · as of
Anderson argues that reminiscences of Smith’s early involvement with Methodism and regional camp meetings support the setting of an experience around 1820. He distinguishes sources with direct knowledge from later recollections that combine separate events, and holds that the surviving evidence supports the basic accuracy of Smith’s memory.
Anderson argues that the witnesses’ repeated accounts, including statements made after estrangement from Smith or the Church, support their published testimony. He distinguishes the Three’s angelic encounter from the Eight’s ordinary inspection and handling, and argues that the Eight’s descriptions and practical experience weigh against visionary-only and counterfeit explanations.