We as humans seem to be of varied opinions of ourselves. To some, human beings are viewed as God's greatest creation. To others, humans are despicable, sinful creatures. And still others say humans are just another species of animal that through evolution and dumb luck became the dominant creature. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints teaches that we are literally children of God, and yet even within the Church there seems to be differing ideas about humans and human nature. On the one hand, we are God's children and as such have within us the potential to become like him. In other words, we are said to have "divine nature." On the other hand, we are subject to sin and imperfection, or subject to our "fallen nature." So which is it? Are we inherently good or bad? And how do our instincts, evolution, and our environment play into what we are?
The Question:
"What do Mormons believe about human nature? Are we inherently good, or evil?"
