Though there are similarities, there are also many differences between the JW's and Mormons.
1)All males, regardless of standing in the church, itself, are considered "priests" and can give blessings.
2) Official Mormon doctrine prohibits polygamy. Back in the 19th century, in order to get out from under Federal government control, and for Utah to become a state, the practice of polygamy was banned.The process that lead to this decision, however, is very similiar to the WT's "new light". The banning of polygamy was actually a concession to the Federal government in order for Utah to become a state. For a Latter Day Saint (as they prefer to be called) to practice polygamy means excommunication from the church.
3)The wearing of The Garment. Sort of a long underwear type thing to remind them of their faith and to keep chaste. I'm not sure if many Mormons practice this today. Probably only the very devout.
4)That the founder Joseph Smith, himself, is a prophet.
5)The refraining of drinking carbonated beverages, coffee, and tea.Mormons are considered the most healthy in the American population, and are often used as a control group for medical studies.
6)They believe in three levels of heaven. The top being reserved for "good" Mormons. The middle for "bad" Mormons and the rest of christians. The bottom for whats left over.
7)Mormons, unlike JW's, are very mainstream. In fact, they are very active in law enforcement and government.
8)Strongly encourage higher education. Even building their own universities. All the Mormon kids I knew ALWAYS went to Brigham Young University.
9)Mormons put a very strong emphasis on tithing. A families tithing record is kept track of. It used to be 10%, not sure if it still is. Kinda like how many hours of service a person puts in with the JWs. The more given, the more prestige.
10)Large families are encouraged. More kids, mean more Mormons. Also, they believe that the more children one has, the better chance their is to get into the top level of heaven.
Well, there are more. But, that is some basic differences between Mormons and JWs.
Andee
You can take a whore to culture, but you can't make her think-Dorothy Parker