End of M2C-media edition

Before discussing the end of M2C, some comments.

- I posted more evidence to support Joseph Smith's claim that he translated the plates. See the annotations to Alma 41 and 42 here:

 https://www.mobom.org/jonathan-edwards

- On the Letter VII blog, we discussed why the plates were preserved.

https://www.lettervii.com/2025/07/why-were-plates-preserved.html

- Many interactions with scholars (and their followers) who promote M2C and SITH boil down to them referring to the Gospel Topics Essays to support their positions. These same scholars wrote the essays in the first place, so they are basically citing themselves. 

These essays were never intended to replace the scriptures, the teachings of the prophets, or authentic historical records. The essays are subject to change at any time without notice, as they have been in the past. Obviously, this is the opposite of reliable authority. The essays are merely useful references.

We can all hope that the essays will continue to be improved. I posted a page on that topic here:

https://www.ldshistoricalnarratives.com/p/gospel-topics-essays-do-not-supersede.html 

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Now, back to the end of M2C.

People often ask why the dominant LDS scholars and media, including podcasters, do not report about, interview, or feature Latter-day Saints who still believe what Joseph and Oliver taught about the origin and setting of the Book of Mormon. 

We can all understand why it would be difficult for people to explain that maybe they erred in repudiating what Joseph and Oliver taught. 

Imagine an M2Cer going through the process of even considering the possibility that the Hill Cumorah/Ramah is in New York after all. It is extremely difficult for them.

We should all be empathetic, supportive and encouraging as they jump on the "end of M2C" train.

The "end of M2C" train

A lesson from the NY Times:

NY Times Pulitzer winner Jeff Gerth: "The media isn't looking for Russiagate scoops nor will they fairly present the ones others get if they reflect poorly on their prior reporting. They're in a defensive posture & aren't inclined to report deeply on anything that helps Trump"

These LDS scholars and their media have a psychological barrier that prevents them from discussing anything that "reflects poorly on their prior reporting." 

Eventually the right thing happens.

Sooner or later, most Latter-day Saints will reach the conclusion that Joseph and Oliver taught the truth after all, despite what critics and certain LDS scholars say.