Many of us have seen the Thanksgiving Father vs. Son knifefight pictures posted on this forum and others. The posting of the pictures has led me to consider the benefit of martial artists studying them (or similar graphically violent material).
I have come across two divergent theories concerning the value of studying the material.
Perspective #1: Martial art students should be exposed to this graphic imagery. By conditioning the student to this imagery over time, there is less of a chance of shock when faced with the horror of a real conflict. You must face the grim reality of combat with indifference so your mind may remain focused on the ultimate goal of victory.
or
Perspective #2: Martial art students should not be exposed to this graphic imagery, as it is counter-productive to the creation of a positive mindset and offense oriented strategy. Pictures like this effect students whether they are conscious of it or not. During a real encounter this imagery will ignite fear concerning the potential damage one can expect if any mistakes are made. Rather than psyching oneself out with imagery of knifefighting failure, the student should simply train hard and keep a survivor-perspective untarnished with pychologically traumatic imagery of failure.
What do you think?
I don't get mad.
I get stabby.