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)

On Killing

This is an absolutely incredible read. It is hard to put down. The author is an amazing person. Would fully recommend this one!

Among the Most Tremendous Books Ever Written

The depth of insight alone makes this book essential reading for every member of the human race. As the author points out, the topics of sex and violence are among the most relevant, yet least well-discussed facets of human reality and experience. This book is a study into the interplay between human psychology and the reality of violence, in war and society. Aside from the content of this book, there is hardly a wasted sentence, nor one that does not provoke thought and deeper understanding of the topics discussed. Few books come close to the insight, literary demonstration, and genuine inspiration, as this one. It truly must be read to be understood fully. It is among the top five most influential and illuminating texts which I have read in my albeit very limited experience as a student of conflict and history.

A small note: Because this book is read by the author, it is lent a further degree of sincerity, depth, and intensity. That said, it can be difficult to understand the reader without a fair degree of extra volume. Some readers may prefer the written version.

Informative

A bit tedious but very good read. Highly recommend for military members, veterans and their families.

Very interesting and informative

very interesting and informative, I would recommend this to anyone interested in such a subject. The author can get very monotone however, and at some points it may be easy to lose focus while he speaks at the same volume and tone as any other part, but overall it's a well done audiobook.

Necessary read for military members and civilians

Grossman’s book is a well thought-out and researched attempt at understanding/explaining how military members are trained to kill (but not truly trained in how to actually deal with the fact of killing). He also connects these concepts to modern day American society, and how societal factors seem to also be desensitizing our citizens (especially, our children). Great book, great audio version as well.

Beyond insightful!

Not only a throughly well researched treatise on the violence that we are being conditioned to mirror but a somber wake-up call to what is inevitable if we don’t reverse course. Anyone with children and anyone confused by why children and the grown-ups they become are more and more prone to violent levels of social interaction, this book explains all the vectors of the vortex that contribute to this phenomenon.

Is it the Gun or the People? Yes.

An eye opening look at the subject with impacts from soldier to society. If you or a loved one has ever faced killing in battle or elsewhere and need to understand the situation, this may provide the answers.

Kept my attention from play to end ... non-stop

Albeit, a bit "pop", and some ideas proposed at the end are a little sketchy ... this book seems well researched, -I spent six years in the Army-, very intriguing, at times captivating, and well written. I would highly recommend.

Must read for all sheepdogs

This is a must read for all people who either protect and serve or the people who train and work with our soldiers and law enforcement.

It’s just the voice..

The book and content within are great. The voice of the author however is very hard to listed to for long periods of time. It will put you to sleep not because it is soothing, but because it is monotone and very bland. Kudos to the guy for writing the book but I think it would be much better with a different voice.