On Killing by LtCol Dave Grossman, 2009, Excerpts
The primary factor that motivates a
soldier to do the things that no sane man wants to do in combat [that is,
killing and dying] is not the force of self-preservation but a powerful sense
of accountability to his comrades on the battlefield. The bonds combat soldiers
form with one another are stronger than the bonds most men have with their
wives.
Four brave men who do not know each
other will not dare to attack a lion. Four less brave, but knowing each other
well, sure of their reliability and consequently of mutual aid, will attack
resolutely. There is the science of the organization of armies in a nutshell.
Men in combat are not usually
motivated to fight by ideology or hate or fear, but by group pressures and
processes involving [1] regard for their comrades, [2] respect for their
leaders, [3] concern for their own reputation with both, and [4] an urge to
contribute to the success of the group.
The recent loss of friends and
beloved leaders in combat can enable violence on the battlefield. The deaths of
friends and comrades can stun, paralyze, and emotionally defeat soldiers. But
in many circumstances soldiers react with anger, and then the loss of comrades
can enable killing. Revenge killing during a burst of rage has been a recurring
theme throughout history.
No comments:
Post a Comment