Why do Mormons possess an aire of superiority and self righteousness and look down on others and think they are better than others?

Answer 1

In reality members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (aka Mormons) are a very diverse group from many areas and backgrounds. They are not perfect and their teachings do not encourage them to believe that. So part of the "aire of superiority and self righteousness" you are asking about simply amounts to people generalizing experiences they have had and applying it prejudicially to an entire group.

Another part of what you are asking about is actually intolerance. There is a growing number of people who feel that if you disagree with them then you must also look down upon them. They leave no room for any middle ground. Latter-day Saints are often very devout people and so when the two groups meet then if both of them are not careful then there is frequently conflicts.

Having been a nearly life-long faithful member of the LDS church and later leaving, in retrospect I see that doctrines I was taught from childhood gave me an air of arrogance. For instance we are taught we have the only true religion, we are chosen (over non-members by God), and that we can receive personal revelation that is often used to judge others "righteously". This is common within many religions however, Mormons are a close-knit group who have been taught they are persecuted. This for many of us made us feel we had the right to dismiss others. In the temple we are taught we are going to become Gods of our own worlds and Kings and Priestesses to rule over others including those who didn't accept our beliefs. Of course for a true believing Mormon this all makes sense and we are self-justified but also justified by those around us in church, and by our leaders who take exhaled positions and status over members. Mormons are good people in general. However, almost without exception those who learn it is a cult--look back on their self righteousness and judgment of others with shame. I have provided the non-glossy true version no active Mormon would ever admit unfortunately.