author
John Andreas Widtsoe
1872–1952
An immigrant scholar who bridged science, education, and faith, he became one of the most influential Latter-day Saint thinkers of his era. His life joined rigorous academic work with decades of public and religious service.
3 Audiobooks
Dry-Farming : A System of Agriculture for Countries under a Low Rainfall
by John Andreas Widtsoe
A Rational Theology, as Taught by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
by John Andreas Widtsoe
Joseph Smith as Scientist: A Contribution to Mormon Philosophy
by John Andreas Widtsoe
About the author
Born in Norway in 1872, he emigrated to Utah as a young man and went on to build an unusual career as both a scientist and a church leader. Reliable biographical sources describe him as a Norwegian-American chemist, educator, author, and member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1921 until his death in 1952.
Before his long service as an apostle, he earned distinction in higher education and agricultural science. Sources from Wikipedia, BYU, and Utah history references note that he studied at Harvard and the University of Göttingen, became known for work in chemistry and soil science, and later served as president of Utah State Agricultural College and the University of Utah.
He also wrote extensively, helping shape Latter-day Saint thought for readers who valued both faith and learning. That mix of intellectual curiosity, practical education, and religious commitment is a large part of why John A. Widtsoe is still remembered today.