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)

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.

ccs review

the convenience of titles such as this in the audio format greatly enables my ability to complete my educational requirements.

Great book for anyone in the military

Very insightful book on killing throughout the ages. Read it for the Commadant's Reading list.

a great overview

great book, does a great job of breaking down how war has changed significantly in the past century.

Lt. Col Grossman shares hard earned wisdom

The first time i saw him speak in person i was in awe. He understood the strategic global environment in a way I will never forget because i had been waiting years to hear someone say the words he so eloquently said. I immediately purchased his books and reread them when I hear the type of hyperbolic rhetoric that pervades our airwaves about war, patriotism, and what it means to be American. On Killing goes beyond the the lessons of On Combat to expose the realities I hope few of us ever have to experience first hand. I am but a mere USAFA grad, but I feel this book can provide valuable insights to all citizens and I highly recommend it.

Powerful Insights to The Mental Aspects of War

The mental aspect of war the combative , and non-combative service members endure are intense. The book covers in dept, but simple terms the full spectrum of what it is, how it happens, and the ways to cope with it.
I served 14 years in the military, non of it direct combat, or as explained close range death. So to hear this and have a better understanding has given me insight of how to deal with some issues. In addtion, to what some of my closest brothers in arms deal with; gives me a better understanding on how to talk with them and help us deal with these emotions.
I look forward to reading/listening to the follow on book "On Combat".