Human Combative Behavior ManifestoV2

Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto

www.lowtechcombat.com

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Prepare to increase your understanding of human to human violence


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Table of Contents Introduction In troduction

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Do they actually want to be able to avoid violence?

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Why is Human Combative Behavior Important?

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Introducing In troducing The Alpha Male and Predator Model

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Fundamental Difference

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The Differences

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Alpha Alpha Male

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Alpha or Beta or Lower?

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Alpha Female? Female?

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Predator

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The Approach

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The Th e Two Faces

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The International Hoplology Society

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A profound impact

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Human Combative Behaviour

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Combat Between Animals of the Same Species

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Combat Between Different Animal Species

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Fundamental Differences

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This Animal to Animal Combative Behavior Shines Great Light into Human to Human Combative Behavior

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Alpha Male Behavior

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Internal action

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External action

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Context

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Personal

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Predatory Behavior


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Internal action

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External action

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Context

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Not personal

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Alpha Male Behaviour and the Group

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Domestic Violence

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Predatory Behavior and the Group

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Non-Mortal Alpha Male Type Combat More Common

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Different Combative Traits Affect Martial Systems too

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Hard Data Showcases the Fundamental Differences Between Alpha Male and Predatory Human Combative Behaviour

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Statistics

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Assault Statistics

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Robbery Robbery Statistics

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Assault v Robbery Statistics and the Alpha Male v Predatory Model

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1. Knowledge of the Victim

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2. Weapons

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3. Location

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4. Activity

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5. Alcohol

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Conclusion

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Charts Showing 50 Year Trends in Violent Crime

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Assault

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Forceable Forceable Rape

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Robbery

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Murder

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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Property Crime

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Conclusion

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Avoidance and De-Escalation

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Alpha Male MO

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Avoidance

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De-escalation

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Predator MO

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Avoidance

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De-escalation

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Do not get these mixed up

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The Caveat

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Thank you

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Join the Low Tech Combat Newsletter

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Recommended Further Reading

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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Introduction

What is the real goal of self defence? When people make the decision for themselves that they want to be able to defend themselves, what do they really want to achieve? Do they want to be able to counter a turning kick to the head? Do they want to be able to do a perfect throw? Do they want to be able to knock someone out? Do they want to be an awesome fighter? Or is it something different? Do they actually want to not get caught up in a violent encounter at all? Do they want to be able recognize the signs of violent behavior about to flare up so they can take preventative action? Do they actually want to be able to avoid violence?

That is exactly what the vast majority of people want to be able to do. But many people forget this because almost the entire self defence industry is telling people that self defence is something physical so you must practice physical things. As the new student begins pursuing this world that is the martial arts and self defence industry they are often thrust into classes that teach them aspects of human combat that is really of very low importance to the above goal of self defence. They are shown how to punch and kick or lock a joint or sink a choke. Not once have they been asked where they live, if they go out drinking regularly or get a train every morning before the sun www.lowtechcombat.com

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comes up or anything like that. The student is never asked about their lifestyle so they can teach an appropriate response to their most likely threats they may face. The training is not personalized at all. Worse still, they are usually NEVER taught the fundamentals of Human Combative Behaviour. If they are never taught this they can NEVER put any other training in context. The vast majority of all training in martial arts and self defence goes something like this. And this is an important point. An attacker does some form of an attacking technique. Then the defender performs some type of counter to it. And that is it. On and on it goes. It is an endless process of learning techniques and counters to an almost infinite amount of attacking techniques. Not only is it basically endless, it can seem very complicated. And that methodology is very complicated. The student needs to be able to apply a certain counter attacking technique for each attacking technique. Under the heat of the moment, this is understandably a tall task and does little to instill confidence. But what about BEFORE the attacker launched their technique? Generally only lip service is paid to this. And this is how the advice usually goes: • Always be aware of your surroundings and run away if you can. And that is about it. Good advice but it doesn’t even cover all of the topics of the pre fight. www.lowtechcombat.com

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This physical based, one size fits all approach to self defence is completely out of date and leaves a student perhaps worse off by learning new and technical movements that do not work under the pressure of real human to human combat. Many students would actually be better off NOT receiving such formal training so in a real situation, they would draw on their instincts which have developed through humankind’s long and turbulent evolution which usually involves covering their head and going forward aggressively and lashing out almost uncontrollably at the attacker. This is actually better than trying to do some technical move and freezing (usually completely open because they forgot the move or they didn’t have time or they paused because they stuffed up the move they were trying to do...) or performing a poor move well which leaves them in a worse position. Make no mistake, there ARE excellent training providers out there who teach the physical aspects well. These providers are in the minority. They teach tactics and techniques that work under pressure. But this Manifesto is not about physical responses to attacks. This Manifesto is about understanding the dynamic behind all human to human violence. It is about the nature of it and the reasons it happens and the moments leading up to the pre fight going physical. This Manifesto goes no further than that. This subject matter needs to be understood before any physical training takes place. Strategic direction needs to occur before embarking on the pursuit of learning relevant tactics. Why is Human Combative Behavior Important?

The aim of this Human Combative Behavior Manifesto is to spread the word as to what the two types of Human Combative Behavior are and how they can be easily recognised. www.lowtechcombat.com

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This model of Human Combative Behaviour (the Alpha Male and the Predator) is based on research from those who have done good work in the past (and credit given to them), as well as builds on this with an exclusive and deep analysis of statistics from around the world. Understanding Human Combative Behaviour is the first step in being able to RECOGNISE when a situation is about to turn violent well before it does. This situational awareness provides the time that enables one to be able to avoid these situations before they turn physical. This is how real, high level self defence happens. Once these two types of Human Combative Behaviour are understood, they are easily recognized. From there, the rest becomes much easier. When the punches are flying and people are falling to the ground in public places, there are no winners, just losers. The fight has been lost by all parties involved. Then the consequences will begin.


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“To defeat 100 enemy in 100 battles in not the highest skill, To subdue the enemy without fighting is the highest skill.” -Sun Tzu


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Introducing The Alpha Male and Predator Model

There are basically two types of attackers. One is an Alpha Male (or wanna be Alpha Male) and one is a Predator. Anyone who has watched any wildlife documentaries will instinctually know what is meant by this. Looking at how animals use violence shines a light onto how humans engage in combat. • The Alpha Male wants to beat down or argue his point with anyone who dares challenge his correctness or who he sees as a threat. This is typically seen in arguments and fights out the front of pubs. Young aggressive males. • Predatory attacks are ambush attacks. This is the type of attack used by someone after a wallet or money, all the way up to kidnapping and sometimes murder. Fundamental Difference

You see, these are the two types of attackers. That is all. One is an 'Alpha Male' and the other is the 'Predator.' Forget about the technique of an attack for the moment. Think beyond techniques, think mindset. Think human combative behaviour. All aspects of an encounter are affected by the type of attack it is. The Alpha Male and the Predator engage in violence quite differently. Some of these differences are listed below. • Both types of aggressors target their victims differently. • They are looking for two very different types of victims. • Two very different situations lead up to the attack. • It requires two very different approaches immediately prior to the encounter going physical if de-escalation and avoidance is going to be achieved. • It requires a different mindset and commitment if it does go physical. • They happen in different locations and in different circumstances. • One is much more common than the other. • One is more dangerous than the other. All of these differences will be explored in further detail throughout this Manifesto. www.lowtechcombat.com

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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto The Differences

Alpha Male The 'Alpha Male' is perhaps best explained as the typical intoxicated male who wants to prove either to himself, his friends, a girl or a combination of the above, that he is the top dog. He can beat anyone. He is a hard man. This type of person will often pick the biggest guy around to fight for no other reason than he is the biggest. HE wants to be the biggest, strongest and fastest male around! He wants the status. He wants the reputation. An important element in Alpha Male type encounters is that these are usually carried out in front of other people whether they be friends, acquaintances or just random crowds. People are watching. Alpha Male behaviour also commonly manifests itself through heated arguments and disagreements. All too often, these lead to fights. The person the Alpha Male is arguing with, often gets caught up in the heat of the moment and says things and does things they would not normally do. Such is the primal nature of these emotional situations. No-one want to back down once they have begun. People are watching after all. They will look weak if they back down now... And this is a key point in Alpha Male type encounters. They are usually carried out in front of other people. Sometimes many people. So saving face, not backing down and wanting to look good in front of peers or others is always present.

Alpha or Beta or Lower? It also needs to be said, that this type of violence is not only done by true Alpha Male types. Many true Alpha Males will rarely get involved in fights or pick fights. They know they are the Alpha Male. His group knows he is the Alpha Male. www.lowtechcombat.com

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Often, Alpha Male type violence is done by people in smaller groups or by people below the Alpha Male in status. They are the Beta Male (or Delta or Gamma or Omega etc). They want to be the Alpha (or top dog) in their own little group (or even a more dominant Beta etc.). They want to elevate their status in some primal way. They may pick fights with others to show their little group (or others looking on) that they are the toughest. It is a form of posturing and status seeking. However, it is all the same type of human combative behaviour. Only the actual level of status is different. The way the violence is carried out is much the same whether Alpha, Beta or somewhere lower. So do not think that anyone who picks a fight is a tough Alpha Male type. Mostly they won’t be. They may be insecure people looking for status. But the manner in which these encounters evolve, begin and get carried out are much the same. Recognising it, avoiding it and de-escalating it is much the same for each level of threat. For ease of writing, the term ‘Alpha Male’ will be used rather than explain the other possibilities each time throughout.

Alpha Female? Alpha Male type human combative behaviour can also be carried out by females. It is not gender biased. Such violence is largely about status. It is also largely about ‘face’ or ‘honour’. This is the type of violence that is done by people when they are highly emotional. Females can easily become highly emotional, just as males can. When females engage in ‘Alpha Male’ type violence, it is often really nasty stuff; Scratching, ripping and biting type stuff, though it is rarely lethal or results in serious injury. Injuries are mostly superficial which is a key trait of Alpha Male type human combative behaviour as we will see later. One area worth mentioning here quickly is the topic of domestic violence or when a man beats his female partner. This has not been studied or explored in much real depth by the author but should be considered in the human combative behaviour context. www.lowtechcombat.com

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As you go through this Manifesto, keep in mind where you think domestic violence fits in to the human combative behaviour model. Is it Alpha Male type violence or Predatory? Throughout this Manifesto, there will be some attempt to shine some light into this subject. This topic will be touched just a couple of times throughout. These points are not definitive, but are certainly worth considering. So for ease of writing, the term ‘Alpha Male’ will be used throughout this Manifesto, although females can engage in it. A number of examples of females engaging in ‘Alpha Male’ type human combative behaviour are HUMAN - ANIMAL VIOLENCE presented in the Newsletter series which you will be receiving soon. Alpha Male

Predator

*Combat between the same species Predatory

The 'Predator' is very different. *Combat between different species He wants to choose a weak ie, Predator-Prey victim. He wants someone who will not fight back. The aim is not to fight a victim, the 'Predator' often simply wants to take something from its victim such as a wallet, phone or money. Kidnapping is also something a 'Predator' engages in. The Predator will avoid the strong and go after the weak. They want quick success. Often the selected victim will not know they have been chosen. They do not know the danger they are in and often find themselves being ‘mugged’ or ‘robbed’ or ‘kidnapped’ out of nowhere. Victims are often surprised. The attacks often come out of nowhere. This is quite different to the Alpha Male type encounter. The above are only simple examples to best demonstrate each type of human combative behavior. These are broad overviews. There are numerous other ways both Alpha Male and Predatory behavior can emerge, not just a drunk guy or a mugger.


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It is generally only crimes labelled Assault, which are 'Alpha Male' activities. The rest are generally 'Predatory' type attacks such as Robbery, Muggings, Break and Enter, Motor Vehicle theft and Kidnapping. The Approach

Events leading up to an encounter going physical are quite stark in their differences. For an encounter involving the 'Alpha Male', there will generally be some posturing much like what is seen between animals of the same species on wildlife documentaries. Chests will be puffed out, loud voices used, emotions will be high, there may be some chest poking or pushing and aggressive body language and gestures. Often an Alpha Male will want to win the fight through posturing or at least gain an advantage psychologically prior to launching their physical attack. Consider how both animals and humans do this. It is much the same thing. The 'Predator' will be silent. He will stalk his proposed victim and assess his chances of success. He will choose the weakest in the pack. That will often be the lone person. To use the wildlife documentary analogy again, the 'Predator' is like the big cat stalking a group of its prey. It wants to choose prey that has been separated from the herd (group). It looks for the weakest victim. It wants the maximum chance of success with the least likelihood of sustaining an injury in the process.

The following chapters will expand on this whole concept and break the model of the Alpha Male and Predator down into more of the fundamentals of human combative behaviour. This will provide a www.lowtechcombat.com

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deeper and more accurate understanding of this very important subject matter. The next chapter is largely a commentary by Low Tech Combat of an academic and very important article which paves the way for understanding Human Combative Behaviour.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto The Two Faces

An absolutely well researched and well written article called The Two Faces of Combatives is thoroughly recommended reading. It is truly eye opening and will probably change the way you think about human to human combat. This article has been the catalyst for all subsequent research done at Low Tech Combat on the subject of Human Combative Behaviour. Without that article, possibly none of this would have been done. There is more to consider than just being able to defend against an attack. There are different types of attack and these differences are truly fundamental. The psychology behind these different attacks are also very different. The International Hoplology Society

The Two Faces of Combatives was written by Hunter B. Armstrong, Hoplology is the term from The International Hoplology used to describe the study Society. Hoplology is the term used of the ev olution and to describe the study of the development of human evolution and development of human combative behavior and combative behaviour and performance performance. It is essentially the study of how different cultures engage in combat and why they do this and differentiating between what is natural and what is taught. A profound impact

The following will present some excerpts from the article and some commentary to expand on certain areas. Regular readers and subscribers of Low Tech Combat will be able to detect that this piece was very influential and was the catalyst for the development of the ‘Alpha Male and the Predator’ model being fundamentally, the two different types of attackers. The following will build on the previous discussions on the Alpha Male and the Predator. Later, we will go into more detail to further support such a m odel through the research conducted by Low Tech Combat analysing real statistics and case studies from around the world. The results of www.lowtechcombat.com

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this research presented here in this Manifesto is the result which builds on top of the excellent work previously done by Armstrong. Human Combative Behaviour

“It is appropriate...to look into both man’s culture and his biology, (i.e., animal behavior) to understand man’s biologically based, culturally manifested, combative behaviors.” This passage means that the study of human to human combat and how it is engaged in, is not complete without analyzing what is instinctive or natural or even at its most base, how the animal inside each human is 'wired up' to engage in combat. On top of that, we cannot ignore the effect that our upbringing and how our culture that surrounds us impacts on human combative behavior and how we engage in it. Even today, people from different cultures engage in ‘fights’ differently depending on where they occur. Examining human to human combat at these very fundamental root levels gives Hunter B. Armstrong a very solid foundation to work from. Combat Between Animals of the Same Species

“Intra-specific aggression is that aggression displayed between member of same species when settling territorial disputes, hierarchy, mating, etc. Typical of this type of aggression are the mating duels of male animals within a species.” Armstrong refers to this type of aggression as 'AffectiveAggression'. This type of behavior is also clearly seen in wildlife documentaries. This is typically seen when a male lion begins to challenge the supremacy of the head male lion in the pride. Once they first make eye contact, there is much posturing and positioning. Each male lion will stand tall and proud and will strive to appear the more dominant. Often, they will roar as a show of www.lowtechcombat.com

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strength. When and if they do actually engage in physical combat, the result is rarely lethal. Generally, one male lion will be injured and will saunter off, prideless. Imagining this, it is easy to imagine, or even remember, how humans engage in a very similar type of combative dynamic. Most of us have seen or been involved in this type of Alpha Male human combative behaviour. Combat Between Different Animal Species

“Inter-specific refers to that aggression shown by members of one species, such as a wolf, towards members of another species, such as a deer. The aggression would be typified by the predator wolf stalking, chasing, and attacking its prey, the deer.” This type of behaviour is clearly seen in wildlife documentaries where one animal slowly and painstakingly stalks another animal. Here, the intent is to kill. This type of behaviour is typically conducted by an animal for its own survival. The hunter will kill its prey and then eat it. It must do this to survive. Again, we can easily imagine humans engaging in a very similar type of combative behaviour in the lead up to a mugging occurring. As the wolf will try to launch a surprise attack (or at least delay the prey becoming aware of the danger), so too do humans intent on mugging another human. Fundamental Differences

As can be seen, both types of combative behaviour are very different. Consider the approach. With combative behavior between different species of animals, the predator stays low and utilizes camouflage and concealment. The predator does not want to be detected by the prey. The predator is calm. The predator requires the element of surprise in order to ensure good chances of success. The attack is launched at the last possible moment. www.lowtechcombat.com

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Now compare this to the combative behavior between animals of the same species. There is no surprise. Both animals are very much overt in their displays and intent. Often, each animal is determining their chances of success in the event this 'dance' becomes physical. In this type of combative behavior, each animal is 'adrenalised', meaning they are both 'pumped up' and probably feeling the physiological effects of combat such as loss of fine motor control and a movement of the blood away from the extremities. Their bodies are preparing for combat. This Animal to Animal Combative Behavior Shines Great Light into Human to Human Combative Behavior

Instinctually, I am sure you are already drawing parallels between the two different types of combative behavior of animals and the two fundamental types of combative behaviour of humans. Armstrong then goes on to highlight these same two types of animal combative behaviour, and applies them to human combative behaviour. These are now paraphrased in the next section.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Alpha Male Behavior

Internal action • High arousal • Substantially influenced by hormones • Intense activation of autonomous system

External action • Goal - To intimidate • Threatening posture, language and tone/pitch • Emotionally provoked by opponents action • Often spontaneous • Often results in minor damage inflicted

Context • Mood of heated emotions • Often territorial/spatial rather than economic motives

Personal • Opponent is known • Emotionally weighted enemy • Eye contact • Insult or hurt given or received • Dignity/Honor often involved, related to self esteem These are just some examples of what Armstrong presents in his article. This type of combative behavior is typically found today in bars, house parties and clubs around the world along with almost all fights between friends and partners.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Predatory Behavior

Internal action • Low or no arousal • Very slightly influenced by hormones • Slight activation of autonomous system • Non emotional

External action • Goal - To subdue • Ready/luring posture • Controlled respiratory/vocality • Not provoked, but initiated • Results often incapacitation or lethal

Context • Dispassionate • Often economically based motive

Not personal • Unattached to opponent • No eye contact • Sometimes play, insult/vengeance not factors Very different findings here. A typical predatory attack is robbery and muggings. A case of robbery is very different to a fight between males over a dispute to do with a female. The list above provides key indicators of this.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Alpha Male Behaviour and the Group

The following is a reproduction of what is perhaps the very best explanation of 'Alpha Male' behaviour I have ever come across. Within the social group, those types of aggression and combative behavior that enhance the individual’s position/status and survivability, without threatening the group as a whole, would be adaptive. In the realm of combat this can be seen in that type of behavior we call affective combative behavior, which generally results in minimal injury and only infrequently in death. This type of emotionally aroused behavior can be aimed at enhancing status (both self and group-esteem), mating conflicts (stimulated by jealousy), enhancing/ preserving personal property, etc. While these situations often lead to violence, when kept within the parameters of the group, they rarely involve mortal combat in cold weapon contexts. Only in rare, “rogue” situations will an individual risk ostracism from the group by violating group-cohesion .” “

This is a very clear, and I feel important, area of human to human combat to understand. A simple question would be this. If we have two people that become engaged in a fight, what person will have the highest morale afterwards, all other things being equal? The person who ‘won’ or the 'loser'? The person that has won will feel that their position or status has increased. I am not saying that this was the known intent at the time but is perhaps certainly working at the sub-conscious level?? Of note, most assaults occur between people who know each other. This has been explored in some detail at the article by Low Tech Combat HERE for those after further details on this. Statistics and numerous case studies are presented. This implementation of the social factor to human combative behaviour cannot be ignored as indeed, humans are a very social animal, and surviving independently is very difficult and dangerous.


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Domestic Violence This would be a good time to raise a few points regarding domestic violence. These are broad observations and have not been researched to the level of the rest of this Manifesto. Looking at what we have seen so far, it does seem that domestic violence is an ‘Alpha Male’ type of human combative behaviour. Consider these points. • High arousal and emotions • Goal is to intimidate • Lots of threatening posture • Mostly superficial injury (rarely lethal) • Opponent is known • Insult or hurt given These are all key factors surrounding Alpha Male type human combative behaviour. Domestic abuse is a very personal and emotional type of violence. It therefore does seem to be ‘Alpha Male’ in nature. Later when we get to the section showcasing a number of charts drawn from statistics of a very large number of incidents over a long period of time, there will be further evidence identifying the nature of this form of violent behaviour. Predatory Behavior and the Group

The following is an excellent explanation on how 'inter species' type combative behavior can eventuate for humans. “Group-identity is consciously and subconsciously a vital part of self-identity. This is further evidenced by the actions of individual members of a group when the group comes into survival-related conflict with members of a separate group (inter-group conflict). Here, group identification can be heightened to the extent that the members of the other group are no longer recognized as being members of the same species (known as “pseudo-speciation) - “they are not like us; they aren’t really human.”...By dehumanizing opposing group members, they “others” become “no more than animals,” and both social and biological www.lowtechcombat.com

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inhibitions against killing fellow humans can be circumvented to a greater or lesser degree.” This dehumanizing process allows humans to willingly inflict serious injury or death onto another human being. The group doesn't even need to be present for this dehumanizing to happen. A person may have strong bonds and connections with a certain group and anyone else they come across in their travels are different. They are not the same, they are 'others' and can be freely hunted like a lion hunts its prey. Non-Mortal Alpha Male Type Combat More Common

Armstrong goes on to state that the less lethal, Alpha Male combative behaviour is more common due to much of our time as humans involving dealing with other humans. We are very social animals and the 'group' makes up a large part of our lives. He states that it is only natural that much of human to human conflict revolves around Alpha Male combative behavior. This is probably why this continues to be the trend today (as will be seen later from analysis of statistics from around the world). Indeed, Alpha Male combative behaviour is still very much the most likely type of combat engaged in by humans today. Research by Low Tech Combat into statistics from around the world comparing Assault to Robbery indicates Assault is about 10 times more common than Robbery. This is very much in line with Armstrong’s work. This will be discussed in more detail in later chapters.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Different Combative Traits Affect Martial Systems too

“...these two types of combative behavior determine intrinsic factors of all combative-systems (respective to their combative applications). That is, the affective and predatory combative behavior traits of man are inherent in the learned behaviors and performance traits of combative-systems...” This is an interesting point Armstrong makes. Indeed, when looked at in this light, many systems of martial arts or self defence today, are focused primarily on just one of the two types of human combative behavior. Which type of combative behavior does your martial system focus on? And is it relevant to you? Often, only a very specific area of Alpha Male type human combative behavior is taught in one martial system, thus further limiting its effectiveness and often relevance. A further question would be, just how effective is that martial system in teaching that one specific area of human combative behavior? Food for thought. It must also be stated, that many martial systems today are not even aware of these fundamental differences and teach one approach for all types of attack. As can be seen now (and even more as you go through this Manifesto), this is a deeply flawed strategy. Systems focusing on affective or Alpha Male combative behavior are common. Attack and defence using Alpha Male tactics is common. Of Predatory combative behavior, only defence from a Predatory attack is taught in modern martial arts. How to defend against robbery, rape and kidnapping for example. Rarely will Predatory type attacks be taught. Armstrong goes on in some detail about this being the main difference between 'martial arts' and what is taught in combat arms units in the military today. The military get taught and practice Predatory-aggressive offensive behavior along with all of the tactics www.lowtechcombat.com

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that go along with these essential military skills, such as how to actively seek out and kill other human beings.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Hard Data Showcases the Fundamental Differences Between Alpha Male and Predatory Human Combative Behaviour

Statistics

From research into statistics from the US, UK, Canada and Australia, it has been identified by Low Tech Combat that there are some very identifiable and quantitative differences between certain violent crimes. Most evident is the differences between Assault and Robbery. Note: The term Robbery usually includes muggings in many statistics classifications. For ease of writing, the term Robbery will be used for both throughout this Manifesto.

Assault can clearly be seen to be very much an Alpha Male type physical encounter. Robbery can clearly be seen to be very much Predatory in nature. Below is a list of the key points which were gathered and analyzed from the statistics from the US, UK, Canada and Australia. Keep in mind the previous chapters about the clear differences between the two types of human combative behavior as you go on. Hard data and an analysis of the statistics indicate:

Alpha Male Attacks *Assault Predatory Attacks *Robbery *Muggings *Property Crime *Theft/Larceny *Kidnapping

Assault Statistics

1. Most Assaults occurred between people who know each other (Just over half) 2. Only a small number of assault cases involved weapons 3. Most Assaults occur at home or near a place of entertainment away from home www.lowtechcombat.com

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4. Most people were doing something at home or some leisure activity away from home at the time of the assault 5. About half of all assaults involved people who were believed to be under the influence of alcohol (Victim interviews) Robbery Statistics

1. Most Robberies occurred between people who did NOT know each other 2. Almost half of the robbery cases involved weapons 3. Most Robberies occur on the street or some other open lands 4. Most victims were going from one place to another at the time of the robbery 5. Only about one quarter of robberies involved people who were believed to be under the effects of alcohol (Victim interviews) Again, Assault is roughly 10 times more common than Robbery. As we can see, these results gleaned from a detailed analysis of real statistics support the Alpha Male and Predatory model of human combative behaviour. The statistics move the model away from just being a theory to become a proven, applicable, practical and very relevant real world model, even truth. Such a proven model should be taught in all forms of self defence and martial arts training. We will see in the next chapter how the results from these statistics match with the underlying Human Combative Behaviour of the Alpha Male and the Predator Model as initially presented by Armstrong.


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Violent Crime Statistics Sources There are a significant number of Government bodies that provide detailed statistics on violent crime from around the world. A wide range of sources were used in obtaining the hard data used in this Manifesto. I have not detailed precise numbers in this Manifesto as this would not be too relevant. Doing so would also make the Manifesto more difficult to follow along and be less clear. Instead, I have used general terms such as most, half, ‘small number’ etc. It is hoped this will make the Manif esto read more easily and the key points can be put across more succinctly. As a resource for you, the Low Tech Combat Tribe, some start points are listed below for your further study and research. These were the resources used by Low Tech Combat to identify universal truths through an analysis of statistics of violent crimes. Australia The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) - Crime and Safety Survey - Crime Victimisation - Victims of Crime US The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Uniform Crime Reports Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) - National Crime Victimisation Survey UK The Home Office - British Crime Survey - Police Reported Crime Canada Statistics Canada - Violent Crime in Canada


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Assault v Robbery Statistics and the Alpha Male v Predatory Model

What we will be looking at in this chapter are some key results that have been seen to be common across the board from statistics from Australia, the US, UK and Canada. The key results will be presented and then some discussion as to how this relates to the Alpha Male and Predatory model of Human Combative Behaviour. The results from the analysis of the statistics from around the world will be highlighted in point form. The assessment from this and how it relates to what we have already covered will follow each topic. 1. Knowledge of the Victim

Assault - Know the victim

Robbery - Do not know

Same as Alpha Male and Predatory model . This result clearly shows that Assault (Alpha Male) activity involves “face” and high emotions where group dynamics come into play. People who engage in Robbery (Predatory attacks) dehumanise their selected victims. It is not personal, they simply want something. It would be harder mentally to rob someone you know, and obviously make it easy for them to identify the Robber. 2. Weapons

Assault - Few weapons used

Robbery - Higher number of weapons used

Same as Alpha Male and Predatory model . Robbery (Predatory attacks) can be more lethal as they are premeditated. Therefore, the Robber arms himself to give him the best chances of success. Assault (Alpha Male) is more spontaneous, therefore weapons need to be at hand or improvised weapons acquired. Alpha Male encounters are generally less lethal than Predatory ones. www.lowtechcombat.com

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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto 3. Location

Assault- At home or entertainment venue >

Robbery- On street or some other open land

Same as Alpha Male and Predatory model . At home and in entertainment venues is where people mix and socialise. Where people socialise, there will be differences of opinion and accepted social norms and violence can occur. When people are on the street, they are in no-mans land essentially. It is like wildebeest moving through the plains of Africa where Predators lurk and seek out the weakest Prey. For humans, this environment is the street and open land. 4. Activity

Assault - Home or some leisure activity Robbery - Going > from one place to another Same as Alpha Male and Predatory model. For Assault, most people were engaging within a group. As we have seen, this can create issues. They can also be engaging with other separate social groups. This creates further issues as well. For Robbery, the victim was traveling from one place to another. This fits perfectly the example above of the Predator lurking and seeking out the weaker, unaware victim who has been isolated from its group. 5. Alcohol

Assault - Half involving alcohol >

Robbery - Few involving alcohol

Same as Alpha Male and Predatory model. Alcohol fuels peoples willingness to voice their differences of opinion, argue and generally not back down or admit they are www.lowtechcombat.com

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wrong. One person wants to stand up to the other, they do not want to lose face as this will elevate the other person to a higher social status, they will then be the Alpha Male or on the next wrung above the other. The difference between Alpha Male and Predatory human combative behaviour can be seen again where Robbery is premeditated and sees the attacker mostly sober. It is not emotional or personal, the Predator is actively seeking out a victim. He wants his best chance of success. Conclusion

As we can see, this Alpha Male and Predator Model is not just a theory but can be seen in action around the world through an analysis of statistics. The statistics show that the model is playing out around the world, every day. The statistics are drawn from a number of different nations and involve large numbers of incidents (well into the millions in total). These results are about as solid as statistics get. Statistics such as these do not lie. Around the world, they are very similar across the board. Next, we will be looking at something a little different which adds further weight to the already overwhelming evidence supporting the Alpha Male and Predator Model.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Charts Showing 50 Year Trends in Violent Crime

A surprising result which was identified on the main site of Low Tech Combat late in 2010, was the shape of the charts which showed the trends in violent crime in the US over a period of 50 years. From these charts, it was identified that there were clear differences between Alpha Male type violent crimes (Assault) and Predatory type violent crimes (Robbery and Murder). Here are the two Alpha Male charts shown below: Assault

The chart above shows the trends in Aggravated Assault in the US over a 50 year period from 1960 to 2009. Note the shape of the chart and how it generally trends smoothly upward (like a skateboard ramp) to a peak around the early 90s.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Forceable Rape

The chart above shows the trends in Forceable Rape in the US over a 50 year period from 1960 to 2009. This chart is very similar to the chart showing Assault statistics. There is a definite skateboard ramp type of shape to it. As we have seen earlier in this Manifesto, Domestic Violence appears to be very much Alpha Male type combative behaviour. Forceable rape could be seen to be likewise. It is very personal, emotions are high, there are high levels of arousal and dignity is present. It is therefore of no surprise to see a similar shape here to the other Alpha Male type of behaviour being the Assault chart previously. Now compare these two charts to the next ones. The following are Predatory type crimes.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Robbery

The chart above shows the trends in Robbery in the US over a 50 year period from 1960 to 2009. Note how different this chart is to the Assault and Forceable Rape charts (Alpha Male). Instead of the smooth upward trend to one clear peak, there are instead three separate peaks, being in the mid 70s, the early 80s and early 90s. There is no skateboard ramp effect. It is important to note that the other charts which show Predatory type crimes also exhibit a similar overall chart shape to this Robbery chart. This is a key finding. The following are two further examples.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Murder

The chart above shows the trends in Murder and Non Negligent Manslaughter in the US over a 50 year period from 1960 to 2009. Note how similar this chart is to the Robbery chart. The three peaks are easily distinguishable here. These are deliberate killings (note the non negligent part). These are largely Predatory type crimes. As we know, Alpha Male type violence is rarely lethal (though it can be) and results most often in superficial injuries and bruised pride. The chart here is showing that Predatory type crimes are affected (by whatever causes the ups and downs) across the board in similar ways. Predatory type crimes can be identified (or confirmed) by the nature of these long term, 50 year charts. This is further evidence supporting the Alpha Male and Predator model of human combative behaviour. The following chart shows likewise.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Property Crime

The chart above shows the trends in Property Crime in the US over a 50 year period from 1960 to 2009. Although this is an overall fatter chart, the trends are more along the lines of the other Predatory type crimes. There are three high spots here as well although they are less defined. Property crimes are clearly Predatory in nature. They are pre meditated, their reason is to obtain some type of resource, no people are present and no posturing occurs etc. The nature of this chart which draws on 50 years of statistics (numbering in the millions of incidents) clearly shows similar overall characteristics of other Predatory violent crimes. It is possible that the reason this chart is fatter is because it is less violent. It is likely that the causes for the changes in crime levels had an effect more at the violent end of the spectrum. Conclusion

These charts provide quantitative proof of the underlying differences between Alpha Male and Predatory human combative behaviour.


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This is important. The Alpha Male type violent crime (Assault and Forceable Rape) charts show clear differences to crimes of a Predatory nature. This indicates that whatever the causes were for the changes in the crime numbers (be they legal, social and/or other causes of which numerous discussions took place in the comments HERE), they had an effect on a particular TYPE of human combative behaviour! This is important. The causes for the changes in Predatory crime numbers did not have the same affect on the Alpha Male type crimes. Likewise, any changes that affected Alpha Male type crimes did not have the same affect on Predatory type crimes. The differences in the charts are clear. The causes affected the whole variety of Predatory type violent crimes, whereas the Alpha Male crime numbers moved independently and vice versa. This information (obtained by official US government statistics) which generated these charts shows clear statistical differences between Alpha Male and Predatory human combative behaviour. Although this is one point, it is a key point as the statistics are drawn from a broad base, in large numbers and go over a very long time period. This is just further evidence (beyond simple logic) that there are two primary types of human combative behaviour.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Avoidance and De-Escalation

You now have a clear understanding of the two types of human combative behavior. You now know where each type of human combative behavior gets carried out. Alpha Male combative behavior happens mostly in the home or entertainment area whereas Predatory combative behavior happens mostly on the street or other open land. When we are in these areas, we know what type of threat is now most likely. After having read this much, instinctually you will also have a picture of what physical traits or behavior each likely attacker will be exhibiting. You cannot use the same avoidance and de-escalation tactics for both Alpha Male and Predatory type attacks. You may have come to that conclusion already. Instead, two very different responses need to be made for each type of threat. Alpha Male MO

Anyone can turn into an Alpha Male. Even someone you know. Even you. Actually, it is more likely to be someone you know than a stranger (just over half of all assaults occur between people who know each other). Such situations can happen very quickly or over time. It depends. Such situations are very dynamic and peoples responses can quickly ensure the situation deteriorates fast. A look, a spilt drink, a disagreement, a difference of opinion, a perceived poor attitude, a self opinion of standing up for oneself or even someone taking a dislike for another persons music taste. Whatever the cause, an argument or disagreement ensues. This usually takes place in the presence of a group. This is an Alpha Male situation. www.lowtechcombat.com

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Avoidance Avoidance is not so simple with Alpha Male situations because they can happen anywhere and at any time. The best way to avoid such a scenario is to limit or stop going to places where a significant number of alcoholic drinks will be consumed and where large numbers of people will be. These are the two biggest common areas that we can affect that relate to Alpha Male type incidents we have seen through the statistics. This sounds extreme to some people. Why should I change my life because of my concern for getting into a fight? That is a personal opinion and has been discussed at length HERE. Whether you choose to or not, that is the most effective way avoidance can work with Alpha Male type behavior. Other options include, a) avoid hanging around people you know who become violent when drunk. Changing the people you socialise with in such circumstances is a smart way to avoid such trouble, and b) move to an area or go out to an area where fights are less common in public areas if they are a regular occurrence where you usually go out with friends.

De-escalation The best way de-escalation can work is to recognise early what is happening and choose to not take it any further. Stopping participating early is the only way de-escalation can occur. The hard part is recognising what is happening as people can get emotionally involved very quickly and get caught up in the heat of the argument. Once you have recognised what is going on (and probably reprimand yourself for allowing yourself to get caught up in arguments), it is time to step back, take a breath and stop the www.lowtechcombat.com

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argument. Admit you are wrong, explain a misunderstanding or whatever else is suitable for that situation. It is worth spending some time to consider some things to say in the event you get caught up arguing with someone over likely topics. Consider what you could say if you get in an argument over a spilt drink, looking at another man’s girl, ‘eye-balling’ and other such likely situations. Do not tell the person they are wrong, do not antagonise the person. Think of some random story or explain you were staring because you recently lost your job and are a bit spaced out, you think your girlfriend is cheating on you etc. It is important to note, de-escalation is not always possible. All you can do is give it your best shot as sometimes it does work. ‘Losing’ an argument means nothing. Avoiding and de-escalating a possible prison sentence or serious injury or death is more important than how ‘right’ you are. You know inside yourself your opinions and one argument will not change the world. Do not run out of mental options and resort to physical responses. This is the dumb way. Predator MO

For the Predator, think of someone lurking in a street or car park or some other similar area. Remember, from statistics these are the locations these attacks mostly occur. The Predator will want enough foot traffic passing by so he can pick and choose a victim much like a leopard will select its victim who gets separated from its herd. Marc “Animal” MacYoung calls these areas “Fringe areas”. These are areas which are close to populated areas such as entertainment districts or where people go out and congregate in large numbers. www.lowtechcombat.com

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From these busy areas, people leave, often individually or in small numbers. They go into quiet areas. These are the areas Predators lurk (or follow victims into). These now alone people are the people the Predator looks closely at for their suitability to become victims. And the stalk begins.

Avoidance The best way to avoid getting selected as prey by a Predator is to not go through his turf whilst he is hunting. If you go out with friends, stay in a group. Do not leave the group and do not let anyone else leave it and go off by themselves, even if there has been an argument or fight in the group. There have been cases where females have stormed off from their boyfriends after having a fight and have then been subsequently mugged and raped. If you are by yourself, do not go down lane ways or cut through car parks or train stations. This is where statistics tell us that most Predatory attacks occur. Simply avoid going to quiet areas away from the public eye. When you are out, consider what the Predator is looking for. A weak and unaware victim. It is looking for that weak young animal that is separated from the group. If you must go by yourself somewhere, do not be that young and weak and unaware prey. Be the fully grown strong human who is looking straight at the Predator when it is close. Be confident but not arrogant. Never leave your back facing the Predator for too long. The Predator knows the strong human has some fight in them and has spotted him. Thus, the element of surprise is gone. The Predator will likely let that animal go by. Be that animal. Be ready for the question which is the predators final attempt at making a decision to attack.


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If you do recognise ahead that a predator may be sizing you up, you can always turn around and go back in the direction you came from. You could even cross the road or go into a store. You could get your phone out and be ready to call the police. By recognising the threat early, you can take action to avoid it. That is proactive self defence.

De-escalation De-escalation is not as clear as with Alpha Male type attacks. Often, a Predator will ask a distracting question to their selected victim as one last way to determine their chances of success. This is especially the case if they are not able to surprise you but they are still interested in maybe attacking you. If you look surprised by that question or offer a weak response, chances are high that the Predator will launch his attack. If you look like you were waiting for that question, and answer directly and confidently with calm and confident eye contact, chances are ok that the Predator will let you go and wait for someone who is more submissive. Keep in mind the Predator may launch into a physical attack immediately after asking you the question. There may be no time to reply. Avoidance and evasion are a priority. If an attack does eventuate, the best thing to do is to give them what they want. If they want your wallet, give them your wallet. Consider carrying a wallet with 20 bucks in it to throw to a mugger. That is a cheap insurance policy. It may not work, but it may. If they want you, as in kidnapping, that is different. It is always up to you, but this would probably be one of those situations where fighting back may be the best choice.


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Do not get these mixed up

There are clear differences in the avoidance and de-escalation tactics for each type of attack. Do not do the responses meant for the Predator to an Alpha Male attacker. This will only make things much much worse. This is why it is important to have a real understanding of the two types of Human Combative Behaviour so that in any situation you may become involved with, the nature of the attack will be obvious. Then, an appropriate response can be utilized.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto The Caveat

The tactics for avoiding and de-escalating both Alpha Male and Predatory attacks are not foolproof. There is no magic bullet. Some attacks will be a combination of the types. Some psychopathic individuals do not fit into what can be labelled as normal combative behavior. Some people are just random and when it comes to violence, are imaginative. Sometimes, no matter you do or say, the attacker will attack you. They will not listen to a word you will say. Some may begin an approach fitting one type of human combative behaviour and then change to the other one. An Alpha Male may follow you up and attack you in a Predatory way. A Predator may get his back up and get all Alpha Male on you. This Alpha Male and Predator model of Human Combative Behaviour is just that. A model. It does not and cannot place all types of human combat into neat little holes that can then be dealt with in absolute terms. This is not possible. If anyone tries to tell you otherwise, they are wrong and are trying to fool you. Although this model is a very fundamental model, strengthened by an analysis of real significant statistics and is very simple and logical and is easily understood, it is still just an aid. If you realise this and use it as it is meant to be used (as an aid), then no doubt, it is a very important and useful tool for anyone interested in self defence and defending those they care about. Understanding human to human violence is the first step in being able to avoid it.


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Thank you

So that is the Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto. I hope you have enjoyed it and got something out of it. If you did, Please let your friends and networks know about it who will likely find it to be of interest. Please drop by to Low Tech Combat and leave a comment about the Manifesto at the below link. This will be much appreciated! Leave feedback here You can send your friends to that above link as well where they can subscribe and get this Manif esto. All the best, and safe travels. Adam Author/Editor of Low Tech Combat. Images from Flickr (Creative Commons) thanks to: http://www.flickr.com/photos/philippeleroyer/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/51600413@N02/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/neonman/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/doom64/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/picmasta/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/gakige/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/fiammifero/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/tudor_mitrea/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/rogermeyer/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/abennett96/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/mharrsch/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/howardignatius/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/tfra ncis/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/smailtronic/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidbygott/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcbeth/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/gigaboss/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/kouchi/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcbeth/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/theeerin/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/drewleavy/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/cdharrison/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/secret_canadian/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/drool/


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Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto Join the Low Tech Combat Newsletter

If you were sent this Human Combative Behaviour Manifesto by a friend and liked it, consider subscribing to our private Low Tech Combat Newsletter. This Newsletter, as well as providing access to this Manifesto, provides a special 5 Part series which presents an analysis of 5 Case Studies of real attacks. It builds on the knowledge gained in this Manifesto and breaks down these attacks to highlight the real world application of the principles of Human Combative Behaviour. Low Tech Combat Newsletter Sign-Up The Case Studies will: • Clearly show if the attack was by an Alpha Male or a Predator • Clearly showcase the uniqueness of that particular type of attack • Demonstrate some key Risk Factors which should have alerted the victim that they were: • A) at the highest risk time and place for such an attack to occur • B) were often doing the highest risk activity for the type of attack they became the victim of • and lots more As well as this special 5 part series, there will be lots of other exclusive content which will only be provided to newsletter subscribers. An example of this will be the Special Features which will each provide a number of articles on one specific sub topic of Low Tech Combat. You will also receive new articles by Low Tech Combat direct to your inbox as they are published. Overall, you will not get too many emails as we do not want to flood your inbox. We are well aware of the growing tide of emails to our inboxes these days and will not add to that. Low Tech Combat Newsletter Sign-Up


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Human Combative Behavior ManifestoV2

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