On Killing

On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society is a book by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, a psychology professor at West Point and a retired lieutenant colonel of the United States Army. First published in 1995, the book explores the psychology of killing in military combat. It delves into how soldiers are trained to kill, the psychological impact of killing on soldiers, and the societal implications of these practices. Grossman's work is based on interviews, psychological studies, and historical accounts of combat situations.

Summary

On Killing argues that there is a strong resistance among humans to killing their own kind. Grossman suggests that the military overcomes this resistance through conditioning, allowing soldiers to kill more effectively in combat. The book is divided into sections that explore the history of killing in combat, the methods used by the military to train soldiers to kill, the psychological effects of killing on soldiers, and the implications for society.

Grossman introduces the concept of killology, a term he coined to describe the study of the psychological and physiological effects of killing on human beings. He examines various factors that influence a soldier's willingness to kill, including authority, group absolution, distance (physical, emotional, and moral), and the presence of an aggressive mindset.

Impact and Reception

On Killing has been influential in military, law enforcement, and psychological circles. It has sparked discussions on the ethics of killing in combat and the need for better mental health support for veterans. The book has been used in military training programs to help soldiers understand the psychological impacts of killing and to prepare them for the emotional and moral challenges they may face in combat.

Critics of the book argue that Grossman's conclusions are overly generalized and do not account for the wide range of individual experiences in combat. Some have also questioned the scientific rigor of his research methods.

In Popular Culture

On Killing has been referenced in various media, including documentaries and news articles, often in discussions about the psychological effects of combat on soldiers and the challenges they face upon returning to civilian life.

See Also

• Psychological warfare
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Military training
• Ethics of war