The Art of Waging Peace: A Strategic Approach to Improving Our Lives and the World

by Paul K. Chappell

Over two thousand years ago, Sun Tzu wrote The Art of War . In today’s struggle to stop war, terrorism, and other global problems, West Point graduate Paul K. Chappell offers new and practical solutions in his pioneering book, The Art of Waging Peace . By sharing his own personal struggles with childhood trauma, racism, and berserker rage, Chappell explores the anatomy of war and peace, giving strategies, tactics, and leadership principles to resolve inner and outer conflict. Chappell explains from a military perspective how Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. were strategic geniuses, more brilliant and innovative than any general in military history, courageous warriors who advanced a more effective method than waging war for providing national and global security. This pragmatic and richly instructive book shows how we can become active citizens with the skills and strength to defeat injustice and end all war.

Genres: Nonfiction

308 pages, Hardcover

First published June 18, 2013

Reviews

[Lauren · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was good to hear from a person who is a product of West Point and the US military give a talk about peace and strength through justice and understanding as opposed to strength through weaponry and brutality.
I was frustrated by the author constantly referring to his other books. He is known for his dynamic speaking and I feel I was reading a work by a salesman not a peace activist.

[Tolga Dorken · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first half of the book was rather frustrating for me as I thought there was a lot of explanation of the obvious, not deserving more than 2 stars. I found more food for thought in the second half. The narrative was a bit too simplistic - I believe this system works well with the American audiance, but not really to my taste. The constant referral to the author's other books and the far-east inspired jargon was annoying at times.

It's a decent enough read if you are new to the subject, but if you are serious about peace and non-violent means to achieve it, jump straight into Gandhi, King and Mandela, don't waste your time here.

p.s. do check out the author's speeches on youtube though. they are much more inspirational than the book itself.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative and interesting. Pretty much a genre mishmash. Some memoir, some persuasive essay, some book report.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well-written book with some good ideas about how modeling peace and treating others with respect will have a ripple effect in the world. I like his references to Martin Luther King Jr and would read his other books.

[Allisonperkel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great ideas but the book is in need of an editor.