Cause of Death: Ballistic Trauma by Scott Young is a highly engaging and informative medical non-fiction book that sheds light on one of the most impactful mass shootings in American history, intersecting mental health, crime, and medical science.
On August 1, 1966, Charles Whitman, a former Marine and student at the University of Texas at Austin, launched a sniper attack from the UT Tower, killing or injuring over forty people before being killed by police. Whitman had no criminal history or mental illness, yet his actions were horrifically violent. In his suicide note, he requested an autopsy, and during the procedure, a brain tumor was discovered. This discovery prompted intense debate about the tumor’s role in Whitman’s violent actions.
Dr. Young, a medical oncologist with expertise in neurology and forensic science, explores the case using modern medical knowledge to examine how the tumor, specifically obstructive hydrocephalus and temporal lobe seizures, could have influenced Whitman’s behavior. This book aims to clarify the cause of Whitman’s violence through an updated medical lens, offering insight into his childhood, relationships, and mental state leading up to the incident.
The book is divided into three sections: a chronological exploration of the shooting, an examination of Whitman’s life, and a deep dive into the medical and psychological factors influencing his actions. Dr. Young draws on multiple sources, including photographs, quotes, and illustrations to make the content more engaging. The first two sections are clear and accessible, while the final section, which delves into medical explanations, can be quite technical, resembling a medical journal. Though some readers may find this section challenging without a background in neuroscience, the book offers enough clarity to keep most engaged.
Overall, Cause of Death: Ballistic Trauma is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and crime. It encourages readers to reconsider the nature versus nurture debate, the role of medical science in criminal behavior, and the implications for gun control and law enforcement. The book offers valuable insight for anyone interested in the causes of violence and the complexities of the human brain.
