33. Avoidance Shooting

In On Killing, Lt. Col. Dave Grossman explores a profound aspect of human nature: the inherent aversion to taking another life. His research reveals that during combat, a significant number of American soldiers deliberately missed their targets.

This phenomenon, indicative of the deep psychological resistance to killing, suggests that, for many, the act goes against a fundamental moral and emotional instinct. Grossman’s analysis distinguishes between intentional and unintentional misses, highlighting that even subconsciously, soldiers may avoid inflicting lethal harm.