On Killing

The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society

By: Lt. Col. Dave Grossman

Narrated by: Lt. Col. Dave Grossman

Length: 10 hrs and 23 mins

Publisher's summary

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.

©2009 David Grossman (P)2009 David Grossman

Critic reviews

"This important book deserves a wide readership." ( Library Journal)

"Powerfully argued...Full of arresting observations and insights." (New York Times)

Needed book especially for Soldier!!

This is a vital book for every soldier to read to help understand the implications involved in killing. I would also highly recommend this book for everyone else in order to understand and appreciate the role that soldiers take on.

An extraordinary study!

This book should be required reading for every adult in America. An especially important read for anyone who considers concealed carry.

Amazed

First time in my life that a book has given me the feeling of the first big free-fall on a roller coaster. Book could sound repetitive, so it’s critical to remember the format and that data is being delivered to the reader/listener.

Thought provoking.

This was very informative and direct. Great and yet disappointing at the same time to hear simple truths about the desensitization of America’s youth on the darkest parts of civilization. Definitely thought provoking.

Great book!

I think all those with a warrior mind set or had at one point a warrior mind set should read or listen to this book!

a great book to examine humanity

I do not know if we want pre-military personnel to know the information in this book. but I think those of us who care about post military personnel should understand the things we ask of men.

It’s the write up that matters.

Much like a military leader’s evaluation, the write up is what needs the most attention.

The information in this book is phenomenal! The content will be knowledge that I carry forward as a military leader. It certainly aids in the understanding that I will have while leading troops within my formation. The author has undoubtably gone above and beyond in the research conducted. This effort receives 5/5 stars.
The 3/5 stars is the length of the text. Many times I found myself wandering from the story.
I started with this book. I will be onto On Combat next. I’m excited for the information, but reluctant in engaging the amount of time I expect that it’ll take to get the information.

It is what it is.

Very technical view on killing and the factors surrounding killing. author uses stories of other soldiers to keep things interesting. lots of information to pull from here and at times it can seem overwhelming. but all in all pretty good

thought provoking

Listened all the way through. Mainly I felt sad, but informed. Much better informed on the current situation vs historical norms

Invaluable

An invaluable read for anyone. Whether you are military, civilian, veteran, or anyone. Grossman has done a great service for the world.