On Killing summary

Understanding the Psychology of Killing

In On Killing by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, we delve into the psychology of killing in combat. Grossman begins by discussing the natural resistance humans have to killing one another, a phenomenon he calls 'killology'. He explains that this resistance is a result of our innate aversion to killing members of our own species, a trait that has been crucial to our survival as a species.

Grossman then explores the ways in which the military has historically addressed this resistance. He discusses the development of new training methods, such as the use of human-shaped targets, to desensitize soldiers to the act of killing. He also examines the role of distance and impersonal weapons in reducing the psychological barriers to killing, as seen in the rise of long-range weaponry.

The Evolution of Killing

As we move forward in On Killing, Grossman discusses the evolution of killing in warfare. He explains how, in the past, soldiers were more likely to kill at close range, leading to a higher incidence of psychological trauma. However, with the advent of long-range weapons, soldiers could kill from a distance, reducing the psychological impact on the individual.

Grossman also explores the role of conditioning in desensitizing soldiers to killing. He discusses the military's use of operant conditioning, a method that rewards soldiers for successful kills, and classical conditioning, which associates the act of killing with positive emotions such as camaraderie and patriotism.

The Aftermath of Killing

Shifting gears, On Killing delves into the aftermath of killing in combat. Grossman discusses the psychological impact of killing on soldiers, including the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He explains that the psychological trauma of killing is not only a result of the act itself but also the moral and ethical implications that follow.

Grossman also explores the concept of 'moral injury', a term used to describe the psychological distress caused by actions that violate one's moral or ethical code. He explains that soldiers who experience moral injury often struggle with feelings of guilt, shame, and a loss of meaning, leading to severe mental health issues.

Looking Towards the Future

In the latter part of On Killing, Grossman discusses the implications of his research on the future of warfare. He argues that the increasing use of long-range weapons and unmanned drones, while reducing the psychological impact on individual soldiers, may lead to a greater disconnect between the act of killing and its consequences.

Grossman also emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychological impact of killing on soldiers and the need for better mental health support. He suggests that by acknowledging the psychological cost of killing, we can work towards creating a more humane and ethical approach to warfare.

Conclusion

In conclusion, On Killing by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman provides a comprehensive exploration of the psychology of killing in combat. It sheds light on the natural resistance humans have to killing, the methods used to overcome this resistance, and the psychological impact of killing on soldiers. It also raises important ethical and moral questions about the future of warfare and the well-being of those who are asked to kill in our name.