No More Heroes: Madness and Psychiatry In War

This book explores the concept of psychiatric "wounded" in war, effectively debunking the concept that many soldiers who would not stay at the front were cowards. Rather, the concept of psychiatric debility is pervasive, and it is only a matter of time before it becomes apparent. Only a small portion of the soldiery (2%), who already exhibit certain psychotic characteristics, appear to be immune (though they have their own psychoses). Arguing from historical perspectives, Mr. Gabriel argues that in future wars, psychiatric debilitation will form a major percentage of our military, making conventional warfare untenable in this age of killing machines. To me, the presentations were thoughtful and provoking; this book might be useful material for all officers training in all branches of the military. It presents interesting insights that might allow us to more equably and properly treat our psychologically wounded and return them to battle earlier. This book brings to mind the famous George C. Scott scene in "Patton," where he mercilessly accused an obviously ailing man with cowardice: this movie helped raise this issue to me, and the possibility that psychiatric debilitation is a common and misunderstood battlefield result.

This is an outstanding book. I purchased it for research for an academic paper and found it immensely helpful.

An important work on a neglected subject, i.e. the psychological costs of war on its soldiers. Prof. Gabriel makes several important points using historical examples as well as medical evidence. He shows that psychiatric casaluties are the most prevelent type of injury on the battlefield. Also, he does a good job of supporting the contention that all soldiers, except for the truly insane, will break down on the battlefield no matter how brave a soldier he might be. What I thought was problematic was I felt he was overstating his case on that war will soon be impossible to wage because the weaponry is just too lethal, and thus almost immeadiatly debilitate a soldier psychologically. For one, human beings have a large capacity to adapt themselves to conditons. Also, there have been several conflicts since the book was written, and soldiers continue to be able to fight in them. Finally, I thought some of the other assertions made may have have been a little too overarching, and more evidence might have been needed. However, all in all, a very interesting and readable book.