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I’m excited to announce that my new book, To
Stop a Slaughter: Just War in the Book of Mormon is published and
available on Amazon! Those of you that read this blog already have a good sense
of the material that is in it. You might remember posts about the importance ofthe heart, preemptive war, and the Nephite wars at the end of their nation.
Here is the back cover blurb:
In a world filled with what seems like "one continual round of bloodshed and murder" (Mormon 8:8) the debates in how to stop that slaughter are filled with partisan talking points, competing vociferous voices, unexamined assumptions about the use of force, fearful hot takes, and self-serving politicians and media narratives that only serve to increase the tension.
In this the war of words and tumult of opinions (JS History 1:10) acclaimed military historian Morgan Deane applies a Hugh Nibley like command of numerous Christian and Chinese philosophers to engage the rich, intellectual debates from history, and apply them to the ethics of war and peace within the Book of Mormon. The result shows that Book of Mormon offers robust comments on such pertinent topics as the paramount importance of the heart, when and how a nation should use force, the limits of the word and the sword, the intent of people making war, preemptive war, insurgency, and a resolution between, instead of cross talk and proof text citations of oft cited pacifist and isolationist verses and those that support the use of force. This book amplifies the clarion call of the Book of Mormon to love your neighbor enough to be like the Nephites, reluctantly compelled to use arms to stop their slaughter (Alma 48:21-23).
I’ve sent the book out for reviews, and if you’re interested in a review copy feel free to send me a message.
My first book, Bleached Bones and Wicked Serpents: Ancient Warfare in the Book of Mormon has reached its ten year anniversary! I just received a message the other day about how it has helped strengthen testimonies. As I wait for new reviews to come in, here are some more over the years:
Deane’s work is well-written and thought provoking, required
reading for those interested in warfare in the Book of Mormon as warfare,
rather than just spiritual analogy. David Spencer, author of Captain Moroni’s
Command.
Hugh Nibley’s understudy. …an absolute must for anyone
studying the Book of Mormon... [ties] wide ranging examples from the ancient
world in remarkable efficiency. Deane's personal experience also gives a strong
eye to military aspects so often neglected... This is a book that will be
talked about for years to come by any serious student of the Book of Mormon...”
David West, award winning author of Heroes of the Fallen
Deane is an excellent scholar with fresh ideas and is always
worth reading. Matthew Roper, Scripture Central.
[Deane helps provide analysis] equal of any rabbinical
quarrel or Jesuitical casuistry…[and] a fitting springboard for robust and
lively debates.” Robert Wood, Chester M. Nimitz Chair Emeritus, U.S. Naval War
College.
The book successfully uses the battles as a means to
understand the evolution of Chinese military culture, doctrine, and tactics.
The battle maps are well drawn and helpful for those who are not familiar with
China’s geography and history. The author has designed the book for general
readers, including high school seniors and college freshman, so they can
quickly grasp the complex security concerns and strategic calculations often
underlying China’s decision-making process. Li Xiaobing, Journal of Chinese
Military History
China’s increased presence on the global stage has
attracted greater interest in its long military history. With five millennia
behind it, East Asia’s dominant power is certainly no stranger to armed
conflict. While that immense scope may seem daunting, author Morgan Deane
offers a highly accessible survey with Decisive Battles in Chinese
History. Army History
This astute history clearly reveals the development of
China’s military and martial spirit. Military Officer
I look forward to reading more positive reviews of my latest book and I’ll share them as they come in.
