Includes bibliographical references and index.

The brain, evolution, and the rage response -- Violence against outsiders -- War -- Psychological effects of violence -- Abnormal psychology and violence.

Human beings are among the most murderous species on the planet. From child abuse to road rage to torture to genocide, people are capable of unspeakable acts of violence. While some violent instincts are rooted in the fight-or-flight response, psychologists believe that humans are especially violent because of their fierce loyalty to their social groups.