Herzilya Series on Personality and Social Psychology: Human Aggression and Violence (PDF)

Violence and aggression have existed as long as mankind, and the need to understand and control these forces has only continued to grow throughout history. Thanks to the advance of psychological research within the social and behavioral sciences, as well as several other scientific disciplines, we have more knowledge than ever before about the genetic, developmental, interpersonal, and cultural causes of aggression. Yet these findings have not been integrated into meaningful discussions about how to transform aggression research into practical applications. With so many answers to the question "What makes a person violent?" there is surprisingly little insight into "How do we prevent violence?" In this comprehensive book, editors Phillip R. Shaver and Mario Mikulincer have assembled chapters from international experts to provide a broad-based and multidisciplinary analysis of aggression and violence, their negative consequences, and promising interventions. Five sections examine major theoretical perspectives, genetic and environmental determinants, and the psychological and relational processes underlying human violence and aggression. The tone of the book is realistic in its investigation of violence as an inherent part of human genetics and interaction, but hopeful in its exploration of research-based interventions aimed at reducing violence in future generations. In its assessment of aggression and violence across individual, relational and societal levels, this book will engage a broad audience.