BYU Campus Education Week: How to relate to others about the Church

Before beginning his BYU Campus Education Week series titled "Myths and Realities of Mormonism," Robert L. Millet, professor of ancient scripture and former dean of religious education at BYU, sought to help his audience understand the need to clarify these misconceptions.

"Whether we like it or not, it matters a great deal what people understand or don't understand about us," he said.

Brother Millet referred to a 2007 survey, "Public Opinion about Mormons," released by the Pew Research Center. The study found that 53 percent of the public expresses a favorable view of Mormons, while 27 percent express an unfavorable view of Mormons, leaving 20 percent expressing no opinion.

A deeper look at the statistics, Brother Millet noted, revealed a correlation between respondents' education level and their positive outlook on Mormonism — the more education a person receives, the more likely they are to view the Church positively.