Introduction
In this interview, Dr. John Kirk Boyd, author of International Bill of Rights: Humanity’s Agreement to Live Together, shares his journey from a seasoned legal career into humanitarian writing. Drawing on his extensive experience, including appearances before the U.S. Supreme Court, he offers a compelling vision for making the Universal Declaration of Human Rights a legally enforceable document worldwide. Beyond the legal and humanitarian insights, Dr. Boyd discusses the evolving world of publishing, comparing traditional and hybrid methods and providing key advice for independent authors.
The Writing Journey Rooted in Human Rights Law
Dr. Boyd’s writing is deeply intertwined with his legal work on civil and human rights. His motivation traces back to fighting discrimination and inequality through law, winning significant cases that protect women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights. For him, writing is a powerful tool—one that extends the mission of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by transforming it into an enforceable international legal framework.
“We can read and write, so we can write the rules for the brutes.” – Dr. John Kirk Boyd
He highlights the essential qualities defined by Eleanor Roosevelt in crafting the Universal Declaration: imagination and courage. As Dr. Boyd explains, these qualities are necessary for envisioning a better global future and having the bravery to pursue collective legal frameworks that protect humanity.
Imagination, Courage, and Global Collaboration
The interview expands on the importance of collaboration, calling it humanity’s “superpower” as referenced by historian Yuval Harari. Dr. Boyd shares inspiration from Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web, noting how digital tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), are now vital in fostering unprecedented worldwide cooperation.
Embracing AI not only accelerates collaboration but also helps overcome language barriers by translating works like the International Bill of Rights into multiple languages—democratizing access and participation globally. Dr. Boyd praises AI’s fearlessness and ability to listen, qualities that encourage wider participation in co-creating this living legal document.
Harnessing AI for Human Rights
- AI aids in translating and distributing legal texts globally.
- AI helps engage more people in contributing ideas and giving feedback.
- It offers nuanced legal perspectives, complementing expert human judgment.
The Plan for Humanity: Law as a Foundation for Peace
Dr. Boyd emphasizes that the plan for humanity, embodied in an International Bill of Rights, is not a personal vision but a collective evolution over 3,600 years. This plan uses humanity’s unique ability to read and write to create enforceable rules that can curtail the harmful actions of tyrants and “brutes” who threaten peace and justice.
He traces the post-World War II creation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a response to mass atrocities, designed to bind all nations to a baseline of respect for human dignity. However, this declaration still lacks enforceability in courts worldwide, limiting its power.
Dr. Boyd’s mission is to complete this crucial step: make human rights legally binding and actionable globally through an International Bill of Rights.
Addressing Global Challenges Through Law and Collective Action
The conversation touches on current realities: rising authoritarianism, environmental crises, and the ongoing nuclear arms threat. For Dr. Boyd, law remains the most promising solution to tackle these problems effectively.
“The problems of the world don’t exist because of the evil people. They exist because of the good people who do nothing about them.” – Paraphrasing Albert Einstein
The call to action is clear: individuals must join global efforts to shape and uphold enforceable legal rights and responsibilities. Dr. Boyd encourages participation via his organization’s website, where advocates can read, comment on, and share the evolving document.
Publishing Insights: Traditional, Hybrid, and Independent Models
Dr. Boyd shares valuable lessons from publishing his book through a traditional publisher, Barrett-Koehler, and later engaging with a hybrid publisher, Gatekeeper.
- Traditional Publishing: Offers professional support including marketing, editing, and wide distribution. Dr. Boyd praises Barrett-Koehler’s thorough process and their success in creating a bestseller regionally.
- Hybrid Publishing: Provides authors with greater creative control and flexibility, including content specifics and language editions. Gatekeeper has allowed Dr. Boyd to leverage technology for multilingual versions and direct reader engagement online.
He stresses the importance of building a team to support the book’s promotion and distribution: researchers, publicists, and technology experts. Being a successful independent author requires assembling skilled collaborators beyond just writing the manuscript.
Tips for Indie Authors
- Develop a professional team to strengthen marketing and outreach.
- Utilize digital platforms and audiobook formats to extend audience reach.
- Focus on targeted niches while maintaining broad engagement strategies.
- Leverage communities like BAIPA for resources, networking, and support.
The Path Less Traveled: Rewards and Challenges for Writers
Dr. Boyd encourages aspiring writers to embrace the difficult but rewarding journey of publishing independently. He acknowledges this path includes both “pleasure and pain” with inevitable challenges along the way. Yet, through perseverance, authors find personal growth, community, and new opportunities for impact.
“There’s a lot of briar on that path, and there’s no doubt that you’re going to get some scars and wounds… but there’s a lot of real benefit on a personal level.”
How to Get Involved and Access the Work
Those interested in exploring or contributing to the International Bill of Rights can visit uniteforrights.org. Dr. Boyd’s book is freely available for download on Apple Books and Kindle or can be read as an online flipbook.
The site also will feature the audiobook version on Amplify Audiobooks, encouraging broader accessibility and interaction.
Dr. Boyd invites readers and fellow authors to join the global conversation, helping refine and advance the project’s mission of human rights enforcement worldwide.
Conclusion
This conversation with Dr. John Kirk Boyd offers a fascinating glimpse into how legal expertise, humanitarian vision, and modern technology intersect to promote a safer, freer world. His work stands as a vital contribution to international human rights discourse, and his publishing journey offers actionable insights for independent authors navigating today’s marketplace. Embracing imagination, courage, and collaboration remains at the heart of this transformative mission.
Author
One of my favorite things about BAIPA is its culture of generosity, the willingness — even eagerness — to share what we have each learned in the process of bringing stories to life. We provide educational programs, networking, marketing opportunities, encouragement, and information on industry vendors and services. And lots of one-on-one advice and mentoring.
We welcome all who have an interest in making connections within the world of independent publishing and learning more about how to publish and sell their work successfully. Together we are raising the standard of independent publishing and helping our members thrive.
Do join us!
—Becky Parker Geist, BAIPA Board of Directors, President
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