Boom

"Boom" is a a step-by-step manual for resisting authoritarian regimes in the 21st century through peaceful resistance, chutzpah, mischief, and time-tested principles of rebellion. First, we provide a broad overview and history of the characteristics, policies, and initiatives of authoritarian regimes, with many concise descriptions of resistance methods and movements. Second, you will find detailed programs for resistance, coupled with examples of what has worked and not worked in the historical record of working for freedom and dignity versus authoritarian regimes. We cover topics such as demonstration safety, legal issues, how to disrupt a regime's supply chain, cyber-resistance, personal recovery from traumatic events, and much more. We tailor our guide to follow the rapidly-changing electronic world, with attention to security, surveillance, and disruptive activities. We include specific examples of how to combat organizations or individuals with undue economic influence in a regime, as well as how to work for initiatives such as climate protection, human rights, and health care. A special section is devoted to applying the principles of Sun Tzu's "The Art of War" to contemporary resistance efforts. It was written specifically in response to the policies and practices of a new administration in Washington, DC, USA, in early 2025, but the principles of this book can be applied widely. For us, a principled resistance movement acts through ethical guidelines that include not harming other people directly, but it does not exclude direct actions that may interfere with the functioning of authoritarian institutions, infrastructure, or "human capital." As there is a constantly evolving web of information, we have created an online appendix which you will be able to access via the book's website, at www.boomthebook.com. Boom! Get busy.