First published 2016
Sebastian Junger investigates post-traumatic stress disorder and the obstacles that military veterans encounter when returning to contemporary society. The author of War and The Perfect Storm examines how ancient human behaviors like loyalty, cooperation, and interdependence emerge in communities during crises. These same traits define effective military service and create bonds among soldiers in both combat and support roles. Junger draws from historical records, psychological research, and anthropological studies to demonstrate how modern society conflicts with our tribal nature. He argues that veteran readjustment problems arise not only from combat trauma but from reintegrating into individualistic cultures. Canadian military data shows that 78 percent of service member suicides between 1972 and 2006 involved veterans. While governments begin addressing veteran issues, Junger questions whether policy changes can solve problems rooted in modern life itself. He suggests that recognizing our fundamental need for tribal belonging could help address both national challenges and personal struggles.
Genres: psychology, sociology, non-fiction, military-history
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: personal-struggle, social-commentary
168 pages · Hardcover · Twelve
Content warnings: mental-illness, suicide