Friday, November 7, 2008

Lethal Vs. Nonlethal Force

No sane person wants to hurt another human being. We learn to repsect life, not destroy it. Because of my work, people have the perception of me as a violent person. Well anyone who knows me understands this not to be true. The same can be said for most martial artists, professional fighters, cops and soldiers. It's a hobby or a job -it's something we do. Personally, I enjoy helping people empower themselves, do their jobs better and live happier, safer lives.

One of the comments I hear about the SDTS is that it's too brutal.
Now, I'll try to write the next portion at the risk of sounding like an alarmist. The Self Defense Training System prepares you for WORST CASE scenarios. Your worst nightmare attacks you with 100% intent on killing or raping you on your worst day under the worst possible conditions. Logic dictates that you plan for the worst and hope for the best.

Common sense will also tll you that if you do anything less than 100% you leave little room for failure. We all must agree as soon as you roll off the throttle you create room for failure.

That being said, this doesn't mean you "kill" everyone who looks at you the wrong way. Your instincts go a long way but remember, even if some one just pushes you and you trip, fall and crack your skull on the sidewalk- you're still just a dead as if they shot you.

In self defense there are no gurantees only high percentage methods- maximun effect in the shortest amount of time. That is what the SDTS provides.

Non-lethal force...yes, it's in there too. You can back off if you have it under control BUT BE WARNED!!!! If you're a civilian and you are going to walk away from some one who you just embarassed, be prepared for retaliation. He may have a weapon, call his friends, and try again with the knowledge that you can kick the snot out of him. Even if it seems resloved, you must leave the scene immediately even if he leaves.

In law enforcement, there are really only a few holds you need to secure some one (unless they are an emotionally disturbed person then its full on). Most people will give up once they realize there's no use in fighting.

The bottome line is all force can be regulated. A blow to the side of the neck can be used to stun as well as kill, the cohice is yours.

People talk about escalating force. In law enforcement this is artially true, bt not like most people think. For civilians escalating force in NOT PRACTICAL. As soon as some one assualts you, you protect yourself and stop when that person or persons are no longer a threat to you.

I'm not talking about your drunk brother-in-law, in those cases a sharp word and a firm push puts them in their place.

Nonlethal force can be regulated, but you're making a grave mistake if you engage with the intent of just pushing someone around. This is why physical force is ALWAYS the last resort.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Damian, Again your info is right on. I believe an attacker Always goes into their attack mode with the thought of succeding. With that in mind, the mind set of the
of the possible victim needs to be to do whatever it takes to survive.
They must become the attacker!

You said, "As soon as some one assualts you, you protect yourself and stop when that person or persons are no longer a threat to you."
I believe the threat of personal harm is reasom enough to protect yourself. Once a thug enters your "Circle Of Space" and you feel threatened, you should do whatever it takes to survive.

I do believe "Personal Awareness of ones enviroment" is one of the best prevention methods available. Know and accept the "Red Flags" your situation is providing you.
Trust your Gut instincts.

Keep up the Good Fight!