Latter-day Liberty: A Gospel Approach to Government and Politics

by Connor Boyack

Individual liberty is a fundamental aspect of the good news of the gospel. But what is liberty exactly, and what role does it play in our lives? Connor Boyack explores these questions and much more in this detailed analysis of historical developments, secular information, and scriptural insights. The war in heaven continues on earth today, and our agency and liberty are under attack. Arm yourself with the truth by reading this timely book.

Advance praise for Latter-day Liberty :

Representative Ron Paul (R-TX), Author, Liberty Defined :
"Connor Boyack has written a fascinating book that applies Mormon theology to the central question of statism vs. liberty that dominates our age.   Latter-day Liberty  provides an insightful analysis of both historical and modern political issues,  and challenges the reader to reconcile religious beliefs with state actions.  Not surprisingly, he finds that our federal government routinely violates the religious principles that many Mormons hold dear.

"Those who advocate limited government necessarily must advocate strong religious, civic, and social institutions.  These institutions, rather than the state, should act as the central organizing mechanisms in American society.  For this reason  Latter-day Liberty  can appeal to readers who are not Mormon, but simply recognize that their relationship with God compels them to question their relationship with the state." Thomas E. Woods, Jr., Ph.D., Author,  How to Resist Federal Tyranny in the 21st Century :
"Only someone knowledgeable in theology, U.S. history, constitutional law, and political philosophy could have taken on a task like  Latter-day Liberty .  Connor Boyack has proven that he more than fits that bill. The sheer weight of his evidence and the unfailing rigor of his arguments -- even when dealing with the hard cases, which Boyack courageously and persuasively confronts -- practically compel the reader to embrace liberty (the real thing, not the watered-down version peddled by most politicians) as the highest political good. A stellar achievement." Greg Wright, Author,  Satan's War on Free Agency :
"I will never view political issues the same after reading this book.  Latter-day Liberty  makes a convincing argument for applying gospel principles to politics. If it is read with an open mind, anybody will be well educated!" Doug French, President, Ludwig von Mises
" Latter-day Liberty  couldn't be more timely.  This poignant book serves as a wake-up call for Latter-day Saints, with Boyack and leaders of the LDS Church eloquently making the case for individual liberty." Jack Monnett, Ph.D., Author,  Awakening to Our Awful Situation :
In  Latter-day Liberty , Connor Boyack has presented a most articulate and historically accurate presentation of the foundational views of Joseph Smith, other leaders of the LDS Church, and our Founding Fathers. In a world of politically charged confusion, Latter-day Saints would do well to read and understand the roots of agency, government responsibility, and individual liberty that Boyack so clearly outlines.  Sheriff Richard Mack, Author,  The Proper Role of Law Enforcement :
This book provides a thorough and compelling analysis of liberty, which is a subject too often ignored in government today. Well sourced and engaging,  Latter-day Liberty  is a must-read for every Latter-day Saint. Jonathan E. Johnson III, President,
In Latter-day Liberty , Connor Boyack has done a great service by researching and compiling teachings on the principles of liberty from the Founding Fathers and the leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in a concise, well-written, and informative way. His application of these teachings to current political issues is both thought provoking and enlightening - even for those who may disagree with his applications. Those who value agency and love liberty will find Latter-day Liberty a book well worth reading.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, Lds, Religion, Philosophy, Mormonism, Government

288 pages, Paperback

First published December 6, 2011

About the author

Connor Boyack is founder and president of Libertas Institute, a libertarian think tank in Utah. In that capacity, he has spearheaded important policy reforms dealing with property rights, civil liberties, transparency, surveillance, and education freedom.

Connor is the author of several books, including the new Tuttle Twins series that teaches the principles of liberty to young children. Other books include Latter-day Liberty: A Gospel Approach to Government and Politics and its companion, Latter-day Responsibility: Choosing Liberty through Personal Accountability.

Connor's work has been publicly praised by former Representative Ron Paul, Judge Andrew Napolitano, Tom Woods, and other nationally recognized figures. He is a frequent commentator on current events and has appeared in local, national, and international interviews to publicize and comment on his work.

Reviews

[Jeffrey Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Connor presents a convincing argument for how an honest and consistent approach to Mormonism would play out in politics. According to Connor, Mormonism most comfortably and authentically fits with the freedom philosophy than with any other ideology out there. Although I was convinced of that notion before reading this book, I find it hard for somebody to be a fully-committed Mormon and adhere to any ideology other than that of classical liberalism.

There are certainly doubters out there, and those who wish to skew Mormonism through the lens of their own already established political commitments, but I think they will find themselves hard-pressed to reconcile any other competing ideology with Mormonism after they have read Latter-day Liberty, with a humble heart and open mind.

Overall, it was an easily accessible read. He took some philosophical concepts that can be difficult for the uninitiated to comprehend or wrestle through, and made them very graspable. Connor is doing a great work in trying to grow the Liberty Movement in Utah, and in particular, reawakening Mormons to their classical liberal foundation.

[Jeff Stockett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent book. Though the LDS church does not get involved in the political process, it certainly teaches principles that can be applied to politics. This book takes the opportunity to examine politics from a Latter Day Saint perspective. It is a non partisan approach to government. In fact, this book criticizes both political parties and points out that neither of them have been perfect champions of liberty.

This book draws on information from the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and quotes from prophets both modern and ancient to pick apart what it means to truly believe in liberty. It also gives strong historical background and information from a constitutional perspective.

I don't consider myself a libertarian, but I do consider myself a constitutionally based conservative. I didn't necessarily agree with all of his points in this book, but every argument he made was well backed up with quotes and arguments from either a constitutional perspective or a gospel one. So it will definitely make me reexamine some of my beliefs.

Here is some of the wisdom to be found in this book:
On Liberty generally:

"The Kingdom of God is a Kingdom of freedom; the gospel of the Son of God is the gospel of liberty." - President Joseph F. Smith p. 1

"I teach them correct principles and they govern themselves." - Joseph Smith p. 12

"Our most important need as defenders of liberty is to know what true liberty is, to teach it, to profess it, and to testify of it." - Elder Charles Didier p. 15

"There is a feeling that the government should step in and take care of one's needs, one's emergencies, and one's future...Under this climate, people gradually become blind to what has happened and to the vital freedoms which they have lost." - President Howard W. Hunter p. 123

On the war in heaven (the conflict between liberty and coercion)
"Christ stood for government by persuasion, by long suffering, by kindness and gentleness and love unfeigned. The other power was for government and salvation for all, to be secured by the spirit of force and compulsion, wherein all would be saved without agency, or what we call common consent." - President Charles W. Nibley p. 17

"Freedom is based on truth, and no man is completely free as long as any part of his belief is based on error." - President N. Eldon Tanner p. 252

"We are involved in an intense battle. It is a battle between right and wrong, between truth and error, between the design of the Almighty on the one hand and that of Lucifer on the other. For that reason, we desperately need moral men and women who stand on principle, to be involved in the political process. Otherwise, we abdicate power to those whose designs are almost entirely selfish." President Gordon B. Hinckley p. 252


"Laws provide against injury from others; but not from ourselves. God himself will not save men against their wills." - Thomas Jefferson p. 24

"I believe in only one thing: liberty. But I do not believe in even liberty enough to want to force it upon anyone." - H. L. Mencken p. 24

"We must be careful that we are not led to accept or support in any way any organization, cause, or measure which, in its remotest effect, would jeopardize free agency, whether it be in politics, government, religion, employment, education, or any other field. It is not enought for us to be sincere in what we support. We must be right!" - President Marion G. Romney p. 26

"One of Lucifer's primary strategies has been to restrict our agency through the power of earthly governments. Proof of this is found in the long history of humanity." - Ezra Taft Benson p. 26

"Besides the preaching of the Gospel, we have another mission, namely, the perpetuation of the free agency of man and the maintenance of liberty, freedom, and the rights of man." - John Taylor p. 30

On the Constitution
"The Constitution of the United States is a glorious standard: it is founded in the wisdom of God." - Joseph Smith p. 58

"It is no less tyrannical for the public to vote on whether you must purchase health care insurance, or what type of light bulbs you may purchase, or how a portion of your property will be diverted to help those in need. Majoritarian control in a democracy produces no inherent virtues, and its dictates can be extremely destructive to liberty." Connor Boyack p. 73

"In questions of power then, let no more be heard of confidence in man, but bind him down from mischief by the chains of the constitution." - Thomas Jefferson p. 79

"The Constitution of the United States is a great and treasured part of my religion, and the revelations of the Lord and the word of our inspired leaders compel it to be so. The overturning, or the material changing, or the distortion of any fundamental principle of our constitutional government would thus do violence to my religion." - President J. Reuben Clark p. 91

On War
"war is incompatible with Christ's teachings...it is vain to attempt to reconcile war with true Christianity." - President David O. Mckay p. 173

On Education
"No man is saved faster than he gets knowledge." - Joseph Smith p. 201

"One of the greatest threats of the word of the Lord today comes from false educational ideas." - President Harold B. Lee p. 202

"I would rather have my child exposed to smallpox, typhus fever, cholera or other malignant and deadly diseases than to the degrading influence of a corrupt teacher." - Karl Maeser, founder of BYU p. 204

On Welfare
"Government is the great fiction, through which everybody endeavors to live at the expense of everybody else." Frederic Bastiat p. 232

"The government seems too anxious to give, give, give to the poor, to the aged, to the schools, to everyone, and blinded people feel they are getting something, whereas they pay it to the government so that the government can after great overhead expense return a part of it to the people. And every time a gift returns to the people (a so-called gift) it comes with fetters binding and tying and enslaving. For every block of funds given to the people, they lose a bigger block of liberty." - President Spencer W. Kimball p. 232

Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies." - C.S. Lewis p. 232

In trying to perpetuate the idea that the government should financially support people, "men become anti-Christ, because those teachings strike directly at the doctrines of the Savior." David O. McKay p. 237

"What is the real cause of this trend toward the welfare state, toward more socialism? In the last analysis, in my judgment, it is personal unrighteousness. When people do not use their freedoms responsibly and righteously, they will gradually lose these freedoms." - President Howard W. Hunter p. 238

"Consecration and communism have nothing in common...it is a strange thing that there are members of the Church who cannot distinguish the difference between the two." - Joseph Fielding Smith p. 246

[Daron · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a quest to better understand the ORIGINS and INTENTS of the Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence, I have been reading a LOT of non-fiction related to those subjects of late. My list of reading has included John Locke, Brion McClanahan, Frederic Bastiat, Ezra Taft Benson, J. Reuben Clark, Heber J. Grant, Abel Upshur, Thomas Paine, Cleon Skousen, Hugh Nibley, and also George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, short quotes from many other Founders, and much more. Latter-Day Liberty by Connor Boyack further cements everything I have been discovering by these other authors: that Natural Law is GOD'S LAW, and every one of God’s children has rights that COME FROM HIM, including LIFE, LIBERTY, and the right to PROPERTY so that we might pursue happiness.

Mr. Boyack does a phenomenal job of explaining these principles to the reader, but goes further than that . . . he ties these principles to the intents of the founding fathers, and thereafter shows not only some of the origins of our sacred founding documents (because, YES, it DOES matter what the founders were reading at the time of their inspired work), but also some of the key historical turning points where government was improperly, and deceitfully, changed into the tyrannical leviathan that we have today. Truly, our Founders would not recognize their produced Republic any longer. For that matter, even “we the people” can’t seem to understand that this is NOT a democracy, and was never intended to be such. But, I digress . . .

Kudos, Mr. Boyack: This is one of the best books on the subject of Liberty that I have ever read.

[KC · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was Connor Boyack’s successor at the BYU Kennedy Center, where we both were employed in the role of web developer and video producer. He and I also share an interest in liberty, and were both Ron Paul enthusiasts during the 2008 presidential election. I was excited when his book came out, and bought in in 2011, though it has taken me until now to read through it in its entirety.

The premise is that Latter-day Saints are particularly positioned to take an interest in the philosophy liberty from both a theological and a political perspective. From the Book of Mormon’s concepts of “opposition in all things” to the political allowances of religious liberty that enabled Joseph Smith to carry out the beginnings of the restoration, the sum total of the latter-day revelation of the gospel is intertwined with the concepts of liberty.

Connor certainly did his homework for this book, and his walk through the political history of the United States as it relates to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is interesting, and often provocative. He gleefully points outs the ironies of the original Republican Party’s platform being essentially an anti-Mormon manifesto, and how it has now become the party of choice for most American Latter-day Saints.

Part 2 of the book goes through a number of contemporary issues through the lens of liberty with LDS considerations. The discussion is valuable and on-point, although frequently idealistic to the point that imagining a viable alternative or an actionable course correction is difficult to do. Even so, the historical context of the issues—particularly that of immigration—was fascinating.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Latter Day Liberty is a timely book that redraws the line between liberty and tyranny in a political climate where that line has been obscured. While the two major political parties do nothing more than perpetuate each other’s policies and put on a front of fighting for freedom, this book brings clarity to the concept of genuine liberty. Primarily directed to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, it examines Church history and doctrine from the standpoint of liberty and gives direction to how it applies to the issues of today.

Latter Day Liberty is compelling and easy to understand for the average reader, yet is profound enough to pique the interest of more technical readers. Reading this book will leave one spiritually uplifted and better informed on important topics of today.

[Scott · Rating 3 out of 5]

An ambitious book to persuade members of the church to join the Libertarian party. Although there were insightful arguments based on faith on why this should happen, much of it was rehashing of Libertarian arguments. Although they are relevant, I was aware of them. Regardless, the beginning and ending were the most informative. It was effective to argue against much of the Republican platforms and how they cannot be accepted if one is a true Christian. It was informative and at times compelling. Although the writing wasn't initially approachable, it grew on me. Ultimately, I felt that it lost me once it took arguments to the extreme. I am glad I read it to have a better understanding of this side of faith and politics in Utah.

[Greg Pawlik · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a fascinating book. The word “libertarianism” is not always associated with good things, which is too bad. But the philosophy is simple and in perfect harmony with the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including the revelations on the role of the government and the US Constitution.

[Benjamin Bastian · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing book with phenomenal ideas. It completely change my outlook on more than a few political agendas and laws.

[James Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Latter-day Liberty provides a much needed clarity and perspective on the proper role between man, God, and government. Topic by topic Boyack suggests scripturally based remedies to many of the social, economic, and political ailments facing society. The overall message is consistent with a standard laid out by Joseph Smith that:

"All men are, or ought to be free, possessing unalienable rights, and the high and noble qualifications of the laws of nature and of self-preservation, to think, and act, and say as they please, while they maintain a due respect to the rights and privileges of all other creatures, infringing upon none." (HOTC 5:156)

Controversial, enlightening and bulletproof, this book is a must read for anyone who participates (or wishes to participate) in the civic process.

[Josh Steimle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I know Connor a bit. Not best buds or anything, but I've met him a few times and we communicate sometimes via email. Knowing a bit about Connor and what he's written on his blog, I had expectations of something good, but not quite on this level. Plus I wasn't a big fan of the cover, so my expectations were tempered by that. But I was quite impressed with the book. Maybe it's because I just finished and the glow will wear off after a few days, but man, this is great stuff. I've read a lot of books on libertarianism over the past few years, but this one puts much of it in one place, in easy to understand terms, with plenty of references and quotes to back it all up. If someone can read this and not be convinced of the overlap between libertarian ideals and the gospel I'll be surprised.

[D.M. Andrews (author) Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Latter-day Liberty attempts to take the teachings of the scriptures and the counsel of modern-day prophets of The Church of Jesus Christ of Later-day saints, and use them as a foundation for understanding what government should and should not do. The first part of the book looks more at the philosophy, and the second part more at the implementation of that philosophy as illustrated by several high-profile policies, including war, immigration and the war on drugs.

The book is very well written, succinct, cogent and - in my view - draws accurate conclusions. It is a book that all Christian people and lovers of liberty will find stimulating. For the LDS people, it is a book they should read and seriously contemplate.

[Cami]

For me the real value of this book is as a collection of great quotes on libertarianism from a wide range of thinkers; quoting everyone from Ayn Rand and Murray Rothbard to Ezra Taft Benson and David O. McKay. My highlighter was busy as I read this. Intially, I was hoping this would be an Mormon-focused rendition of "Defending the Undefendable" because I do find that I'm constantly trying to reconcile my libertarian approach to social-issue politics with the morality of my religion. But the author spoke to much more general terms and broad theories (e.g. non-aggression, Just War Theory, etc.) and did very well in laying out those arguments supported by quotes from scripture, prophets and general authorities.

[Holli · Rating 3 out of 5]

Politics isn't my cup of tea, but I picked up this book on recommendation from my father-in-law and figured it wouldn't hurt to broaden my knowledge a bit. The book was well researched and written. The author brought up some good and thought-provoking ideas. I was a little disappointed with some of his points, especially in the war section. However, I did learn a fair bit about liberty and it gave me several things to think about with regard to politics and the place of government. It changed the way I see how some things are done. Overall, a good book that I would recommend if you are looking for a book on liberty and politics in relationship to LDS gospel.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really important book--every Latter-Day Saint in this difficult election year should examine attitudes about liberty and governance--and this book is a tremendous help and an important voice for liberty. Well researched, well written, well reasoned, quotes from Church leaders and good solid thinking about the problems we have today and what government can and should do (or not do) about them. A modern-day Title of Liberty to hold up to the world.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent! A must-read for anyone who wants to understand and maintain our liberties. The first half of the book explains the background and foundation; then the second half applies everything to modern-day examples. Admittedly, the first half is a little more tedious to read, but it is necessary in order to understand the modern-day applications in the second half. But it is well worth the effort! Great book!

[Tim Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Connor Boyack did an excellent job arguing for libertarianism by supporting many principles espoused by LDS leaders. I enjoyed listening to it and being reminded of the many inspiring and wise things that have come out of the mouths of LDS leaders since the beginning of the church. Whether you are LDS or not, I feel the principles described are universally applicable and are worth a read.

[Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really liked this the author is well read and understands liberty like few in our nation. I dont agree with all of this book ( national defense comes to mind ) but I respect his opinions and can see the train of logic he uses to support them.

[Argawal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recommend this book highly for any LDS member confused about politics. Doesn't matter if you're left or right leaning, after reading this book you will be more aligned with the principles of the LDS faith. It's simple and rather an introduction which is good if you're new to the topic of freedom.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

A phenomenal book! This book greatly changed my political perspective and should be a must read for all LDS members!

[Brynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was excellent! I was a little skeptical going into it. But I found it informative and enlightening. I highly recommend it to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

[Jen Barker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I didn't agree with everything the author states, it's an informative and thought provoking book.

[Cathy Ankenman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned so much from this book. Has great and logical insight on liberty and how we should act as free people. The government is robbing us of our rights and he explains how they are doing it.

[Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone should read this book, especially every LDS member.