Can You Become an Assassin? The Cold, Hard Truth
The short answer? No, not in the romanticized, Hollywood sense. The reality of “becoming an assassin” is murky, dangerous, and overwhelmingly illegal. While the term evokes images of highly skilled, morally ambiguous figures operating in the shadows, the truth is far less glamorous and far more grim. This article dissects the realities of assassination, separating fact from fiction and offering a blunt assessment of the paths—legal and illegal—one might consider, along with a heavy dose of ethical and legal considerations.
The Illusion vs. Reality of Assassination
The popular perception of assassins is heavily influenced by fiction. Movies, books, and video games often depict assassins as possessing extraordinary skills, advanced technology, and a complex moral code. They’re often presented as anti-heroes, operating outside the law but adhering to their own set of principles.
The grim reality is starkly different. Professional killers, whether they’re called hitmen, mercenaries, or contract killers, are primarily driven by financial gain. Their skill sets often rely more on brutality and access to weapons than intricate stealth or martial arts prowess. Loyalty is often questionable, and their actions are, without exception, illegal and morally reprehensible.
Legitimate Paths That Mimic Aspects of Assassination
While becoming a literal assassin is not possible (or advisable), there are legitimate career paths that might appeal to individuals drawn to certain aspects of the assassin archetype. These paths emphasize skill, discipline, and operating in high-pressure environments.
The Armed Forces: Sniper Training and Special Operations
As the article excerpt notes, the most legitimate avenue is through military service. Becoming a sniper in the Army or Marines involves rigorous training in marksmanship, camouflage, reconnaissance, and intelligence gathering. Special Forces units demand even greater physical and mental fortitude, with training in close-quarters combat, unconventional warfare, and survival skills.
However, it’s crucial to understand that military personnel operate under strict rules of engagement and international law. Their actions are governed by a chain of command and are subject to legal and ethical oversight. They are soldiers, not assassins, and their targets are enemy combatants in wartime, not civilians.
Law Enforcement: SWAT and Special Units
Similarly, law enforcement agencies, particularly SWAT teams and specialized units, require exceptional tactical skills and the ability to handle high-stakes situations. Training focuses on firearms proficiency, hostage rescue, surveillance, and crisis negotiation. While their work can be dangerous and demanding, it is conducted within the framework of the law and under strict accountability.
Private Security: Executive Protection and Risk Management
Another potential path involves private security. Executive protection specialists (bodyguards) are responsible for the safety and security of high-profile individuals. Risk management consultants assess and mitigate threats to organizations and individuals. These roles require training in defensive tactics, threat assessment, and crisis management. While the work can be challenging, it primarily focuses on prevention and protection, not offensive action.
The Illegal and Highly Dangerous Path of Contract Killing
Embarking on a path toward becoming a contract killer is fraught with peril. It involves associating with dangerous individuals, engaging in illegal activities, and risking imprisonment or death. There are no legitimate training programs or certifications for this “profession.” Any skills acquired would likely be learned through criminal activity, making the individual even more vulnerable to legal consequences.
The Realities of the Underworld
The underworld is a brutal and unforgiving environment. Contract killers are often exploited by organized crime groups and treated as expendable assets. Their lives are constantly at risk, both from law enforcement and from rival criminals. The psychological toll of taking another human life can be devastating, leading to substance abuse, mental health problems, and social isolation.
Furthermore, the financial rewards are often exaggerated. Low-level hitmen may earn relatively small amounts, while high-level assassins are rare and their services are extremely expensive. The risks far outweigh any potential financial gain.
Ethical and Legal Considerations
Beyond the immediate dangers, the ethical and legal implications of becoming an assassin are profound. Taking another human life is a violation of fundamental moral principles and is punishable by severe legal penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Even considering or planning such actions can have serious legal consequences. Conspiracy to commit murder, solicitation to commit murder, and aiding and abetting murder are all serious crimes.
FAQs: Demystifying the World of Assassins
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the realities of assassination:
1. Are assassins like those in the Assassin’s Creed games real?
Absolutely not. The Assassin’s Creed franchise is a work of fiction, albeit one rooted in historical events and figures. The romanticized portrayal of assassins as skilled, morally guided warriors is a far cry from the grim reality of criminal activity. Understanding how games can teach us about history and society is fascinating, which the Games Learning Society explores in depth. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org for more information!
2. What skills do real-world hitmen possess?
Real-world hitmen often possess a combination of skills including firearms proficiency, hand-to-hand combat, surveillance techniques, and the ability to maintain composure under pressure. However, their skills are often less refined and more reliant on brute force than the intricate techniques depicted in fiction.
3. How much do hitmen get paid?
Payment varies widely depending on the target, the risk involved, and the hitman’s reputation. Low-level hitmen might earn a few thousand dollars per hit, while high-profile assassinations could command hundreds of thousands. However, the vast majority of contract killings are poorly paid and highly dangerous.
4. What are the psychological effects of being a hitman?
The psychological effects can be devastating. Many hitmen suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, depression, and anxiety. The act of taking another human life can lead to profound guilt, remorse, and social isolation.
5. Do hitmen work alone?
Some hitmen work independently, while others are part of organized crime groups. Even solo operators often rely on a network of contacts for information, weapons, and transportation.
6. What is the difference between a hitman and an assassin?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle distinction. A hitman is generally understood to be a professional killer hired for financial gain, while an assassin may be motivated by political or ideological reasons. However, both engage in illegal and morally reprehensible acts.
7. Is it possible to become a government assassin?
In most democratic countries, government-sanctioned assassinations are illegal and unethical. While intelligence agencies may conduct covert operations that involve lethal force, these operations are typically carried out by highly trained professionals operating under strict legal and ethical guidelines.
8. What is the role of the Mafia in contract killings?
The Mafia has historically been involved in contract killings, using hitmen to eliminate rivals, enforce discipline, and protect their interests. However, the Mafia’s influence has waned in recent years, and other organized crime groups have emerged as major players in the world of contract killing.
9. How do law enforcement agencies investigate contract killings?
Law enforcement agencies use a variety of techniques to investigate contract killings, including surveillance, witness interviews, forensic analysis, and the use of informants. They often target organized crime groups and attempt to identify the individuals who ordered the hit.
10. What are the penalties for hiring a hitman?
The penalties for hiring a hitman are severe. Individuals who solicit or conspire to commit murder can face life imprisonment or the death penalty.
11. Can women be hitmen?
Yes. While the profession is predominantly male, there have been cases of women working as hitmen.
12. What is the average age of a hitman?
The average age varies, but studies suggest it is between 30 and 40 years old.
13. Are most hitmen psychopaths?
Not necessarily. While some hitmen may exhibit psychopathic traits, others are motivated by financial desperation or loyalty to organized crime groups.
14. How common are contract killings?
Contract killings are relatively rare compared to other types of homicide. However, they are a persistent problem, particularly in areas with high levels of organized crime.
15. What are the alternatives to becoming a hitman?
For individuals drawn to the adrenaline and skill involved, consider careers in the military, law enforcement, or private security. These professions offer opportunities to develop valuable skills and serve a greater purpose while operating within the bounds of the law.
Conclusion: Choose a Different Path
The allure of the assassin is a powerful one, fueled by fiction and a fascination with the dark side of human nature. However, the reality is far more brutal, dangerous, and morally bankrupt. There are legitimate paths to pursue if you are drawn to certain aspects of the assassin archetype, but becoming a literal assassin is not an option that aligns with ethics, legality, or personal well-being. Choose a different path, one that values life and contributes to a safer and more just world.