Nonviolent Action is the latest offering by author Ronald J. Sider.
Having had losts of discussions over the years about "just war" vs. pacifism, I thought I would give this new book a perusal. I had read some of Sider's earlier works and never really connected with them. Despite that, this topic intrigued me enough to give the author another chance.
Let me just say it, this is an excellent book. Sider looks at nonviolent action throughout the 20th century. Brief and compelling chapters about Gahndi, King, the Arab Spring, Liberia and many more examples, keep the reader engaged throughout the book.
I was very impressed by how Sider handled the topic overall. While not ignoring other factors (economic, political, etc) the author shows that nonviolent action does work and should be considered a viable option. Though I really enjoyed this book, two things would have made it much, much better. The book is addressed to Christians but there is no supporting Biblical examples cited by the author. Even the occasional verse would have been helpful. I thibnk this is where the book suffers the most. The other thing that would have made the book better would have been a more practical application in the concluding chapter.
Despite these two issues, this is a book that is much needed in the ongoing debate about war and pacifism. No matter where you stand on the issue, I challenge you to read this book with an open mind.
"This book has been provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications and Baker Publishing in exchange for an honest review."
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