Of Jewish Studies . . . and (by implication) Religious Studies . . . and Mormon Studies

There has been in certain circles, over the past three or four years, a deliberate turning toward a form of Mormon studies that would be acceptable to neutral or secular academics.  And, of course, a decisive turning away from studies of Mormonism reflecting faith or commitment, or seeking to advocate and defend the claims of the Restoration.

Does this turning happen without implications for actual faith?  Will it have an impact, in the Mormon case, on the faith and beliefs of the Latter-day Saint community?

An interesting piece from Jacob Neusner:

http://fornspollfira.blogspot.com/2015/09/the-effect-of-jewish-studies-on-judaism.html