On Killing

The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society

By: Dave Grossman

Narrated by: Dave Grossman

The revised and updated edition of Lt. Col. Dave Grossman's modern classic about the psychology of combat, hailed by the Washington Post as "an illuminating account of how soldiers learn to kill and how they live with the experiences of having killed." In World War II, only 15 to 20 percent of combat infantry were willing to fire their rifles. In Korea, about 50 percent. In Vietnam, the figure rose to more than 90 percent.

The good news is that most soldiers are loath to kill. But armies have developed sophisticated ways sophisticated ways of overcoming that instinctive aversion. The psychological cost for soldiers, as evidenced by the increase in post-traumatic stress, is devastating. This landmark study brilliantly illuminates the techniques the military uses to help soldiers kill and raises vital questions about the implications of escalating violence in our society.
"Powerfully argued...Full of arresting observations and insights." —New York Times

What now?

Very provocative book that makes one think of the implications for society of making people more effective at killing. Let us hope that we don't become a warrior society. What are the options? Where do we go from here?

Insightful

Helps open up the concept of killing on a wider perspective. Uncovers conditioning and it’s effects on the military and society.

Excellent read for anyone

Where does On Killing rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

I have read this book in print and also now in audio. Dave was a very good narrator as well as author. This book provides excellent perspective on many aspects of both life and war.

What did you like best about this story?

Even as a 35 yom it gave me a different view of every war conflict the united states has ever been involved in. The way we treated veterans especially from Vietnam was disgusting and shameful. It gives me hope that we will look back at how we treat police officers in 2016 and people will be ashamed with themselves for how they acted as well.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I was glues it took me a few days to finish this book.

Any additional comments?

Dave did a great job all around. Though some of his views may be a little zoned in for some. He is still a very smart and insightful man. I encourage anyone to read, anyone.

CCW must listen

Believe this book a must for any one going into the military or planning to CCW a firearm for personal protection. Also along with On Killing you should also read or listen to On Combat by Col. Grossman. They will truly help you understand what you are possibly signing yourself up for.

Sensational training guide for Security and LE.

Understand the psychological and physiological aspect of lethal encounters, the training prior and the aftermath.