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We Hold These Truths to Be Self Evident: 12 Natural Laws of Freedom, Progress, and Success
New York Timesbestselling author Oliver DeMille is always on point as he schools us on all things freedom. Our society is in decline because we are breaking twelve natural laws, and until we change this, the decline will continueno matter what else happens. But we cant sit around waiting for politicians to fix things. We, the ordinary people, have all the power over these twelve laws. Now is the time to get educated and take a stand for freedom!
156 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
12 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Oliver DeMille
28 books124 followersOliver DeMille is the founder and former president of George Wythe University, a founding partner of The Center for Social Leadership, and the author of A Thomas Jefferson Education: Teaching a Generation of Leaders for the 21st Century.
As a university student, Oliver went on a search for a truly great education — experiencing private and public universities, technical and religious schools, corporate and international educational institutions, prestigious colleges and worthless diploma mills; he literally sampled the best and the worst that modern education has to offer, and virtually everything in between.
As a result, he found a small Bible school where he worked closely with mentors and studied the Bible and the great classics in many fields. Although Coral Ridge Baptist University was not regionally accredited, he was so excited by the quality of his studies that he left a large, well-respected university to focus full time on his classical education. He earned the B.A. in Biblical Studies (May 1992), M.A. in Christian Political Science (December 1992), and Ph.D. in Religious Education (May 1994) at Coral Ridge Baptist University.
He has written and spoken extensively about the traditional education system versus his intense mentored-classical experience with Coral Ridge and his mentor–Dr. W. Cleon Skousen. After his Coral Ridge studies, he returned to Brigham Young University and completed the B.A. in International Relations with a minor in Aerospace Studies, graduating Magna cum Laude (1994). He then devoted his time to refining the educational design and curriculum of the liberal arts school he founded, George Wythe College (now University).
Oliver is a popular author, keynote speaker, and business consultant. Presently, he devotes a majority of his time to writing. He and his wife Rachel are raising their 8 children in southern Utah.
As a university student, Oliver went on a search for a truly great education — experiencing private and public universities, technical and religious schools, corporate and international educational institutions, prestigious colleges and worthless diploma mills; he literally sampled the best and the worst that modern education has to offer, and virtually everything in between.
As a result, he found a small Bible school where he worked closely with mentors and studied the Bible and the great classics in many fields. Although Coral Ridge Baptist University was not regionally accredited, he was so excited by the quality of his studies that he left a large, well-respected university to focus full time on his classical education. He earned the B.A. in Biblical Studies (May 1992), M.A. in Christian Political Science (December 1992), and Ph.D. in Religious Education (May 1994) at Coral Ridge Baptist University.
He has written and spoken extensively about the traditional education system versus his intense mentored-classical experience with Coral Ridge and his mentor–Dr. W. Cleon Skousen. After his Coral Ridge studies, he returned to Brigham Young University and completed the B.A. in International Relations with a minor in Aerospace Studies, graduating Magna cum Laude (1994). He then devoted his time to refining the educational design and curriculum of the liberal arts school he founded, George Wythe College (now University).
Oliver is a popular author, keynote speaker, and business consultant. Presently, he devotes a majority of his time to writing. He and his wife Rachel are raising their 8 children in southern Utah.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 30, 2013
As always, will post a more in depth review on my blog - however, for the benefit of the Goodreads community, here's a shorter summary.
Was able to rate this 5 star/top of the line w/o question nor hesitation, as the book's core theme/spine is imperative for many millions (over time) to read, apply, & teach to others.
I used to wonder, as recently as 4 years ago, why things never seemed to improve when I was a supporter of one of the major political parties in America; this book, along with several others by the same author, have completely transformed my thinking on the 'why' this is, the 'how', and additionally, 'when' things went off the tracks, and 'what' can be done. So, the whole spectrum of key questions/perspectives.
The book is easy to read, although due to so much schooling v. deep education in our nations, esp. America, some of the references will be brand new to many.
Was able to rate this 5 star/top of the line w/o question nor hesitation, as the book's core theme/spine is imperative for many millions (over time) to read, apply, & teach to others.
I used to wonder, as recently as 4 years ago, why things never seemed to improve when I was a supporter of one of the major political parties in America; this book, along with several others by the same author, have completely transformed my thinking on the 'why' this is, the 'how', and additionally, 'when' things went off the tracks, and 'what' can be done. So, the whole spectrum of key questions/perspectives.
The book is easy to read, although due to so much schooling v. deep education in our nations, esp. America, some of the references will be brand new to many.
February 15, 2018
Excellent principles in this book. They're laid out really easy. A little too easy. In many parts in every chapter the same principles are reiterated over and over it became almost painful. You can tell its one of his first books written.
I very much enjoyed the quotes throughout and the list of further reading. I might recommend this book, but I think there's some others out there that are better written. Maybe a revised edition in the future could help this version.
I very much enjoyed the quotes throughout and the list of further reading. I might recommend this book, but I think there's some others out there that are better written. Maybe a revised edition in the future could help this version.
January 25, 2014
Another great book from Oliver DeMille. What is presented here can change the nation and change lives. Whether you are familiar with natural law or not I highly recommend this book. It is both a great introduction to vital knowledge about natural law as well as a follow up to what you have already studied. He always brings something more to the table than what you have otherwise considered.
His style is to speak to the ordinary person, making his writing understandable and yet profound at the same time. He believes in the ordinary person making a difference and in fact says that it is ordinary people who must make the difference. We ordinary folk are the only hope, but we need to understand how natural law works in our lives to make that difference.
I also appreciate how he handles such an important subject in that he builds instead of bashes, while still being clear about the reality of our situation with freedom, what is at stake if we don't do something about it, and what is required to make the difference.
It is informational, educational and inspiring. It is simple, yet profound. It is an interesting blend of fiction and non-fiction. I like the appendix as much as the rest of the book!
Another thing I like about the book is the recommended readings in the appendix particularly because he sights original sources, fictional, non-fictional, historical and scriptural references to consider for additional study and understanding. The stories are important for you to see the natural law in context of real lives - where the rubber meets the road - where we can internalize these very laws that affect our lives whether we know it or not, whether we believe them or not. He does not ask you to take his word for it as the expert, but encourages you to become the expert.
I have given 5-Star ratings to some of this author's other books and yet this one is superior to most of those that received this same rating. It is easily a favorite, along with The Coming Aristocracy and A Thomas Jefferson Education. In matter of importance, I would say it is the most important one by a hair with A Thomas Jefferson Education right behind it.
His style is to speak to the ordinary person, making his writing understandable and yet profound at the same time. He believes in the ordinary person making a difference and in fact says that it is ordinary people who must make the difference. We ordinary folk are the only hope, but we need to understand how natural law works in our lives to make that difference.
I also appreciate how he handles such an important subject in that he builds instead of bashes, while still being clear about the reality of our situation with freedom, what is at stake if we don't do something about it, and what is required to make the difference.
It is informational, educational and inspiring. It is simple, yet profound. It is an interesting blend of fiction and non-fiction. I like the appendix as much as the rest of the book!
Another thing I like about the book is the recommended readings in the appendix particularly because he sights original sources, fictional, non-fictional, historical and scriptural references to consider for additional study and understanding. The stories are important for you to see the natural law in context of real lives - where the rubber meets the road - where we can internalize these very laws that affect our lives whether we know it or not, whether we believe them or not. He does not ask you to take his word for it as the expert, but encourages you to become the expert.
I have given 5-Star ratings to some of this author's other books and yet this one is superior to most of those that received this same rating. It is easily a favorite, along with The Coming Aristocracy and A Thomas Jefferson Education. In matter of importance, I would say it is the most important one by a hair with A Thomas Jefferson Education right behind it.
February 11, 2017
I am so glad this book was recommended to me. Most of my Government knowledge comes from high school. I am slowly changing that with one book at a time. There is so much good and pertinent information in here written for the average person to understand. Which is exactly what I needed.
August 5, 2016
I regretfully admit that, despite my higher education learning (aka college degree), I am shamefully ignorant in most things political. I attribute this to my lack of interest in history and dislike of conflict, but that's not really an acceptable excuse. I am grateful to authors like Oliver DeMille who write books like these for the "non-experts" in plain language so someone like me can easily understand major points and ideas that shape our nation and government. The chapters were short, straight forward, and points were often repeated so readers can fully grasp the ideas being illustrated. I especially like how he used works of great scholars to support his points. I look forward to reading more of DeMille's books so I can get a better idea of how I, as an individual, can begin to impact our nation in a positive way, preserving (or more like claiming back) our freedom and giving the next generations a chance at life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.
December 17, 2015
I love all Oliver DeMille books. He has a very easy way of teaching truth. I've heard a lot about Natural Law, but never really understood it. Oliver does a great job of unpacking what that is in this book and showing how it relates to freedom. I would highly recommend anyone in this country to read this book.
Even better a second time through. With all that's happening with the decrease in freedom in our society I believe it's ever more important to study natural law and how our founders thought. Freedom is well out the door for us now, and unfortunately many of us are not paying any attention. Many of you will even read this review yet somehow not pick up this book and study it, then you'll complain when they are arresting you in your own home for no apparent reason. Don't think it will happen? Read more history.
Even better a second time through. With all that's happening with the decrease in freedom in our society I believe it's ever more important to study natural law and how our founders thought. Freedom is well out the door for us now, and unfortunately many of us are not paying any attention. Many of you will even read this review yet somehow not pick up this book and study it, then you'll complain when they are arresting you in your own home for no apparent reason. Don't think it will happen? Read more history.
December 23, 2013
This book is a fantastic introduction to natural law and does a phenomenal job at linking the important natural laws to the current decline of our nation. It was very thought provoking and eye-opening. A definite must-read for anyone that cares about freedom and what we can do to keep it!
January 19, 2014
"Government isn't likely to fix things, nor will we likely see much real change form politicians or big institutions. If things are going to be fixed, it is up to ordinary people. The people need to know these twelve natural laws."
January 23, 2014
This Book is needed in our present times! Great reminder that only the concerted effort of a group of people will change the world, in fact, it is the only thing that has. It is also interesting how Common Sense nearly always aligns with Natural Law.
January 7, 2014
Every American that cares about freedom needs to read this!
December 28, 2013
A must read for anybody who is concerned about your freedoms
January 18, 2014
Anyone inteested in stopping the decline of freedom in our country needs to rad this book. Very enlightening about the natural laws that govern us. We haveignored them for too long!!
January 21, 2014
Amazing book. Makes it clear what is going wrong in today's politics!
January 23, 2014
great read
March 22, 2014
Great read and great information needed badly in the United States today.
January 1, 2024
There's fabulous information in this book - a primer perhaps on natural law and how it could transform our government. The chapters are short and easy to read.
I didn't love the introduction, intermission or ending - sort of interjected conversations between the author and someone else. Stylistically, they felt weird, and weirdly specific in a way that was distracting (I switched the phone to my other ear and turned my face to the sun) for a nonfiction book.
I was really disappointed that the climactic call to action was to share the book and what you learned from it with 7 people. The epilogue actually contained what I think is the crux of how things can pivot for our nation: we need to get around tables and in discussions with people from all different walks of lives. We need to listen and share within relationship first. *Then*, in my opinion, we can share what we learned with 7 people. Before then, our society is so silo-ed and disjointed, preferring to hear our own views and voices in an echo chamber, sharing this book would have little impact.
As in other books by this author I have quibbles with the way quotes and citations are handled (not well) and often find the style repetitive, nevertheless a worthwhile read with the potential to change the trajectory of nations in valuable ways.
I didn't love the introduction, intermission or ending - sort of interjected conversations between the author and someone else. Stylistically, they felt weird, and weirdly specific in a way that was distracting (I switched the phone to my other ear and turned my face to the sun) for a nonfiction book.
I was really disappointed that the climactic call to action was to share the book and what you learned from it with 7 people. The epilogue actually contained what I think is the crux of how things can pivot for our nation: we need to get around tables and in discussions with people from all different walks of lives. We need to listen and share within relationship first. *Then*, in my opinion, we can share what we learned with 7 people. Before then, our society is so silo-ed and disjointed, preferring to hear our own views and voices in an echo chamber, sharing this book would have little impact.
As in other books by this author I have quibbles with the way quotes and citations are handled (not well) and often find the style repetitive, nevertheless a worthwhile read with the potential to change the trajectory of nations in valuable ways.
November 30, 2019
This book effectively stated how governments fail in their duties, how the US government is failing and how to fix it. Oliver DeMille gives the 12 natural laws that when broken lead to a decline in freedom. He explains the purpose of government as protecting the country from national threats and internal threats. If the government oversteps these bounds it has too much power and needs to be regulated. This is a great book for US citizens!
August 19, 2024
The should be a must-read in any civics class. It’s short and sweet, but packs a punch with deep concepts, so I took my time reading and thinking about it. When a government gets so large of and controls too much or micromanages citizens’ lives, things fall apart because natural laws are not being followed. DeMille talks about the what and how of these laws—and when you understand what they are (and how they relate to freedom), you can’t unsee the damage that must be fixed soon. VERY soon.
April 26, 2020
Very interesting ideas. . . This is an excellent discussion book--regardless of whether or not you agree with the ideas. It's really an important discussion we need to be having in society--the role of government. . . The only reason this is not a 5 star rating is because of the cheesy ending that made it feel like multilevel marketing.
June 3, 2022
I so loved the ideas in this book and think they are so important! But the writing was dry and repetitive at times. I thought that the best part of this book was the appendix. So if you pick it up, read it to the end:). By the end I was inspired to reach out of my comfort zone in conversations with people. I’m grateful for vocabulary and ideas to talk to people I disagree with.
August 5, 2021
An excellent introduction to the concept of Natural Law as well as 12 Rules derived from it. This is especially important when contrasted with the now almost ubiquitous view of Positive Law taught in Law Schools today.
August 15, 2017
An excellent book. If you are worried about our freedom, pick up this book and see what can be done.
November 28, 2017
Loved it!!! I recommend this book to everyone!!
September 3, 2018
This is a must read for all people in all societies! Understanding natural law is essential for nations to gain freedom or remain free. I highly recommend this book!
July 7, 2020
Wow! This is a great book to read while studying the constitution. Very in depth about natural law and an American government that supports our constitutional rights.
December 5, 2021
Review coming...
August 26, 2023
Read this book! The most important book you will read this year. If you love freedom and want to reverse America’s decline buy a copy and read it.
February 3, 2024
I have read multiple books written by Demille. I am frequently inspired by new ideas and connections, but i sometimes find his books poorly edited or hastily published. Aside from a clunky prologue and epilogue this book is a concise and assessable look at how focusing on natural law can make for a healthier government and society
DeMille manages to sidestep potential landmines by avoiding reductive religious or political rhetoric. He defines natural law without clinging to one religion and focusing instead on shared concepts. He is also what i call an equal opportunity offender- attempting to apply principles to equally both sides of Americas currently divisive, binary political discourse.
DeMille frequently leaves me with homework or introduces me to new thinkers. I had never heard of Pufendorf. Now i want to discuss his concept of right and wrong and how we identify slurs, what he means by a slur, and what a natural law consequence would be. (Page 29)
Although the book is a call to action- it manages to identify ways to influencie our current political space that seem challenging and possible and effective. That is powerful
I appreciate the encouragement to shift my energy from a presidential election towards the house- to focus on budget matters and make greater impact by communicating with and following the actions of my representatives
I value the law of the vital few- the power that passionate individuals have in their community to serve and improve lives His focus on entrepreneurial efforts as well as volunteering is a practical and effective way to decrease reliance on government but improve our own spaces
I would love to hear perspective on natural law or DeMille’s book by a less libertarian person.
I would also love to have further conversations about the faultiness of perceiving the government as a supreme power that should act whenever anything bad happens. What does that say about how we view the role of a supreme power? What has history taught us about the effectiveness of the government as a charitable organization? Or how the government acts in times of non political crisis? What is my own view of a supreme power?
I found the law of maturity (page 91-92) a good self check
Definitely worth reading and worth rereading.
DeMille manages to sidestep potential landmines by avoiding reductive religious or political rhetoric. He defines natural law without clinging to one religion and focusing instead on shared concepts. He is also what i call an equal opportunity offender- attempting to apply principles to equally both sides of Americas currently divisive, binary political discourse.
DeMille frequently leaves me with homework or introduces me to new thinkers. I had never heard of Pufendorf. Now i want to discuss his concept of right and wrong and how we identify slurs, what he means by a slur, and what a natural law consequence would be. (Page 29)
Although the book is a call to action- it manages to identify ways to influencie our current political space that seem challenging and possible and effective. That is powerful
I appreciate the encouragement to shift my energy from a presidential election towards the house- to focus on budget matters and make greater impact by communicating with and following the actions of my representatives
I value the law of the vital few- the power that passionate individuals have in their community to serve and improve lives His focus on entrepreneurial efforts as well as volunteering is a practical and effective way to decrease reliance on government but improve our own spaces
I would love to hear perspective on natural law or DeMille’s book by a less libertarian person.
I would also love to have further conversations about the faultiness of perceiving the government as a supreme power that should act whenever anything bad happens. What does that say about how we view the role of a supreme power? What has history taught us about the effectiveness of the government as a charitable organization? Or how the government acts in times of non political crisis? What is my own view of a supreme power?
I found the law of maturity (page 91-92) a good self check
Definitely worth reading and worth rereading.
January 24, 2015
In this book DeMille outlines twelve laws—what are called natural laws—that are critical to the freedom, progress, and success of any nation. He does a great job of articulating these laws and explaining why they are fundamental to any group of people that want to live together in freedom. He explains why freedom is not something we may take for granted if we want to keep it. The book is not long, is presented in a straightforward manner, and is important in helping current generations understand what freedom is and why we want to keep it. This is an important book.
April 8, 2020
Third read: Wow did I miss a lot. So many more notes and thoughts are recorded in my book. Truly a book worth reading and discussing with others often.
Second read: Why you should read some books more than ones. I have many more notes and thoughts on this read. In fact because of reading this book and something I heard from the author I am interesting in re-reading several fictional books to look for these principles in them.
First read: Nice book that reviews the history of Natural Law and also the pieces necessary to keep natural law a foundation to law.
Second read: Why you should read some books more than ones. I have many more notes and thoughts on this read. In fact because of reading this book and something I heard from the author I am interesting in re-reading several fictional books to look for these principles in them.
First read: Nice book that reviews the history of Natural Law and also the pieces necessary to keep natural law a foundation to law.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews