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This week on The Latter Day Lens, Matt, Shawn, and Graham tackle a thought-provoking lineup of topics that cut to the heart of justice, liberty, and the proper role of government. We dive deep into the surprising reality of America's low crime clearance rates and ask if it's time for a new approach to deterring crime. Then, we pivot to a local controversy in Provo, Utah, where a popular dance fitness program was suddenly shut down, sparking a debate about local control and individual liberty – and whether one always serves the other. Finally, we examine the Trump administration's approach to undocumented workers and employer accountability. Plus, in "The Big Question," we confront the alarming truth about a new, more toxic ingredient in weedkillers and ponder the government's moral obligation to protect its citizens from harmful substances. Tune in for a lively and insightful discussion!

Thought Provoker & Topic 1: The State of Justice - Why Are So Many Crimes Unsolved?

• The Data: We discuss the shocking reality of low crime clearance rates in the U.S., particularly for murders and car thefts, and how America compares to other developed nations.
• The Question: Given that the U.S. incarcerates more people than almost any other country, is our current system effective in deterring crime? What "better way" might we find?

Topic 2: Local Control vs. Individual Liberty - The Provo Dance Class Controversy

• The Story: We break down the unexpected closure of the "Dirtylicious Dance Fitness" program at the Provo Recreation Center after six years, and the city's reasoning.
• Shawn's Take: Shawn, a proponent of local government control, weighs in.
• The Debate: Does this example demonstrate how local control can inadvertently reduce liberty? Is local control a scriptural principle or more of a political preference?

Topic 3: Immigration Enforcement - Who Should Be Held Accountable?

• The Policy: We examine the Trump administration's stated vow to hold companies accountable for employing undocumented workers.
• The Reality: Why have DHS enforcement operations overwhelmingly focused on arresting workers rather than punishing employers?
• The Discussion: Is this the right approach? Should employers who knowingly hire undocumented individuals face more significant repercussions?

The Big Question: Government's Role in Public Safety - The Diquat Dilemma

• The Concern: We uncover the troubling facts about diquat, the highly toxic herbicide ingredient now replacing glyphosate in Roundup, which is banned in many other developed nations.
• The EPA's Stance: Why has the EPA resisted calls for a ban, even as products containing diquat hit U.S. shelves?
• The Core Question: What is the proper role of government in regulating potentially harmful products? If a government knows a substance can harm its citizens, does it have a moral obligation to ban it, or at least warn its citizens?

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Host Introduction
02:49 Understanding Propaganda and Its Implications
05:45 Crime Rates and the Effectiveness of Punishment
08:48 Rethinking the Criminal Justice System
11:32 Community Standards and Local Government Decisions
14:27 The Role of Local Government in Providing Services
25:59 Local Control and Scriptural Principles
28:32 Government's Role in Community Standards
30:09 Immigration and Employer Accountability
34:27 The Role of Government in Public Health
47:11 Trust in Government vs. Free Market Solutions

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This episode of Latter Day Lens dives into some heavy-hitting topics, from the nature of propaganda in foundational American documents to the complexities of the BYU Honor Code and the nuanced role of conflict in societal change.

Here's a breakdown of the key discussions:

• Propaganda: Good or Bad? The hosts grapple with the definition of propaganda, debating whether historical documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Federalist Papers, or even public health campaigns like "Smoking Kills," qualify. Matt argues that if a message is intended to manipulate or is based on carefully selected (or omitted) truths, it's propaganda, regardless of its perceived positive outcome. He points out that even well-intentioned "propaganda" can lead to a skewed understanding of history, creating ongoing societal challenges. Levi, on the other hand, suggests that if something is honestly believed and not intended to deceive, it may not be harmful, even if it could be labeled as propaganda.
• The Pareto Principle and Human Nature: Shawn introduces the Pareto Principle (the 80/20 rule), suggesting it applies to various aspects of life, including human behavior and organizational effectiveness. He even attempts to connect it to scriptural concepts like "almost all men" exercising unrighteous dominion, implying that a minority often drives the majority of outcomes, both positive and negative. While the hosts playfully debate its "doctrinal" status, the principle is explored as a potential framework for understanding distribution of effort, waste, and even spiritual progress.
• Trustees vs. Delegates in Government: The conversation shifts to the role of elected officials, specifically in the context of the Big Beautiful Bill. The hosts discuss whether representatives should act as "delegates" (reflecting the direct will of their constituents) or "trustees" (making decisions based on their own informed judgment for the perceived best interest of their constituents). Matt strongly advocates for the trustee model, especially for complex issues like the federal budget, arguing that public opinion often lacks the necessary understanding. Levi agrees, emphasizing the importance of voting for character in leaders who can navigate unforeseen crises.
• BYU Honor Code's Application: The discussion tackles the ongoing debate about the BYU Honor Code, particularly the perception that it's not applied uniformly. Matt, drawing from his experience as a YSA bishop, provides a concrete example of disparate treatment between ecclesiastical and Honor Code Office processes, even for similar infractions.
• Addressing Historical Injustice and Societal Conflict: The episode concludes with a deep dive into how to address historical injustices, using the example of a Confederate statue's relocation in North Carolina. The hosts introduce sociological theories: "functionalism" (slow, cautious change to preserve societal stability) versus "conflict theory" (highlighting existing societal conflicts to drive change, even if it causes disruption). The conversation explores the nature of "peace" in politics and whether it means the absence of conflict or actively addressing underlying issues, even if it leads to discomfort. The distinction between peaceful protest and destructive rioting is also a key point of contention.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Homework Discussion
00:58 The Nature of Propaganda
05:54 Debating Historical Documents as Propaganda
11:49 The Pareto Principle and Its Implications
23:55 Trustees vs. Delegates in Representation
31:28 BYU Honor Code Controversy
38:31 Conflict Theory vs. Functionalism in Society

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In this episode, Matt, Shawn, and Marc dive into some of the most pressing and thought-provoking issues of our time:

• Robert Kiyosaki's Hyperinflation Warning: We kick off by discussing "Rich Dad Poor Dad" author Robert Kiyosaki's dire predictions for the US economy, including impending hyperinflation and a financial wipeout for millions. He points to weak demand for US bonds and a Moody's downgrade as contributing factors. The hosts explore Kiyosaki's recommended solutions – investing in gold, silver, and Bitcoin – and ask the crucial questions: Are you worried about hyperinflation in the US? And what practical steps should we take to protect ourselves against economic downturns?
• The Disparate Job Market of May 2025: Next, we analyze the latest jobs numbers, revealing a mixed bag across industries. While sectors like Financial Activities and Education and Health Services boast low unemployment rates, Leisure and Hospitality, Wholesale and Retail Trade, and Information are facing significant challenges. This disparity sparks a conversation about political promises from both Biden and Trump to help everyone economically, leading to the big question: Is it truly possible for government policies to benefit all citizens, or will there always be winners and losers in the economic landscape?
• Truth and Transparency in Geopolitics: Trump, Khamenei, and Iran's Nuclear Program: The discussion then shifts to the conflicting narratives surrounding recent US strikes on Iran's nuclear sites. Donald Trump claims the program was "obliterated," while Ayatollah Ali Khamenei downplays the damage. This stark contrast prompts an examination of honesty in public discourse, particularly for political leaders. We ask: Does this situation underscore the critical importance of being completely honest in everything we do? And should we prioritize honesty more heavily when choosing which political leaders to support?
• Synthetic Human DNA: Playing God or Divine Inspiration? Finally, we tackle "The Big Question": a controversial project funded by the Wellcome Trust to create artificial human DNA. This groundbreaking research aims to develop treatments for incurable diseases and promote healthier aging, but it also raises profound ethical concerns about "designer babies," biological weapons, and enhanced humans. With many church members opposing stem cell research due to its embryonic origins, this new avenue presents an opportunity for genetic cures without reproductive interference. We grapple with the profound theological and ethical dilemma: Is the creation of synthetic DNA inspired by God for the benefit of humanity, or is it mankind attempting to play God?

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Events
03:08 School Vouchers and Public Education
07:35 Concerns About Hyperinflation
13:59 Government Policies and Employment
20:30 The Role of Honesty in Politics
25:35 The Role of Honesty in Leadership
28:43 Propaganda: A Double-Edged Sword
35:11 Synthetic DNA: Playing God or Divine Inspiration?
46:44 The Future of Medicine and Ethics