Do Assassins Still Exist? The Real World vs. Hollywood
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Yes, assassins still exist, though perhaps not in the romanticized, video game version we often see. The reality is far grimmer and more nuanced than the image of a highly skilled operative silently eliminating targets with pinpoint precision. While the term “assassin” conjures images of shadowy figures motivated by political ideology or religious fervor, the more common reality is the “hitman,” a professional killer motivated by financial gain. These individuals, and the shadowy networks they operate within, are a persistent, albeit thankfully rare, element of the criminal underworld.
The Modern Reality of Assassination
The idea of an assassin is deeply ingrained in our cultural imagination, fueled by historical accounts, fictional thrillers, and video games like Assassin’s Creed (which, while entertaining, bears little resemblance to reality). But separating fact from fiction is crucial. We must distinguish between the historical “Order of Assassins” (a radical Islamic sect that terrorized the Middle East centuries ago) and the modern reality of contract killings. The historical order, despite its fearsome reputation, faded as a political force centuries ago.
Today, the picture is more complex. While politically motivated assassinations still occur, the majority of killings carried out for hire are orchestrated by criminal organizations, individuals seeking revenge, or those involved in business disputes. These killings are often brutal and messy, a far cry from the clean, precise operations depicted in movies. Think less James Bond and more the grim reality of organized crime.
Who Are These Killers?
The profile of a modern assassin is diverse. Some are low-level criminals looking to make a quick buck, while others are highly skilled professionals with military or law enforcement backgrounds. Criminologists have identified different types of hitmen, including novices, dilettantes, journeymen, and masters, each with varying levels of experience and skill.
It’s important to remember that being a hitman is a dangerous profession. They risk not only being caught by law enforcement but also becoming targets themselves. The criminal underworld is a treacherous environment, and loyalty is often a commodity.
The Legal and Ethical Implications
The act of assassination is, unequivocally, illegal. In most jurisdictions, it is considered murder, carrying severe penalties, including life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Even conspiracy to commit murder or solicitation to commit murder are serious offenses.
Beyond the legal ramifications, the ethical considerations are profound. Taking another human life for financial gain is a morally reprehensible act, regardless of the target’s background or perceived crimes. The normalization or glamorization of assassination in popular culture can have a desensitizing effect, blurring the lines between right and wrong.
FAQs: Exploring the World of Assassins
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the complex and disturbing world of assassins:
1. What’s the difference between an assassin and a hitman?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle distinction. A hitman is generally understood to be someone hired for financial gain to kill a target. An assassin, on the other hand, is often portrayed as someone driven by political, ideological, or religious motives, though they may also be paid. In practice, the lines are often blurred.
2. How much does a hitman get paid?
The cost of a hit varies greatly depending on factors like the target’s profile, the difficulty of the hit, and the hitman’s reputation and skill. A low-level hit might cost $5,000-$15,000, while a high-profile target could command a price of $100,000 or more. These figures are estimates, and the actual price can fluctuate wildly.
3. Is it legal to be a hitman?
It’s legal to be a person who could hypothetically be a hitman, but the moment you agree to perform a hit, you’ve crossed the line into illegal activity. Conspiracy and solicitation to commit murder are serious crimes.
4. Does the government employ assassins?
Some government agencies, particularly those involved in espionage and special operations, may engage in targeted killings in certain circumstances. However, these operations are usually conducted under strict legal and ethical guidelines, and the term “assassin” is rarely used officially. The CIA are the most like “secret agents”.
5. Are assassins and serial killers the same?
No. While both commit murder, their motivations differ. Serial killers typically kill for psychological gratification, often following a pattern and choosing their victims based on specific criteria. Assassins, on the other hand, are primarily motivated by financial gain and kill on behalf of a client.
6. What skills are needed to be a hitman?
The skills required vary depending on the type of hit, but common requirements include proficiency with firearms, hand-to-hand combat skills, stealth and surveillance techniques, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Criminal connections are also essential for finding work and avoiding detection.
7. Is there an age limit to be a Hitman?
Hitmen’s age ranges widely. The youngest hitmen are around 15, while the oldest are around 63.
8. What are the different classes of Assassins?
Assassins can be classified in different classes. Here are some: Enforcers – specialize in direct melee combat and they can deal/sustain a lot of damage. Shadows – specialize in stealth approach and avoiding direct combat. Specialists – have varied skills that support their teammates on missions.
9. What are the 4 types of hitmen?
Birmingham City University criminologists identified four main types of hitmen: the novice, the dilettante, the journeyman and the master.
10. Does the Assassin’s Creed accurately portray real assassins?
No. Assassin’s Creed is a fictional video game that takes place in a historical setting.
11. Are there female assassins?
Yes. There have been female assassins throughout history and in modern times. While the profession is often associated with men, women are also involved in contract killings. They are often more discreet and trustworthy than the men in this criminal work.
12. Who is the deadliest hitman of all time?
Julio Santana, a notorious Brazilian hitman; he is considered by the Brazilian and international media as “the deadliest hitman in history”, for having killed 492 people officially (more than 500 unofficially), considered the highest number of fatal victims killed by a single hitman.
13. How can I avoid becoming a target of an assassin?
While there’s no foolproof way to guarantee safety, common-sense precautions can help reduce your risk. These include maintaining a low profile, avoiding making enemies, being aware of your surroundings, and reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
14. What do you call a person who hires a hitman?
A person who hires a hitman is often referred to as an instigator.
15. What religion was the Order of Assassins?
The original ‘Assassins’ were medieval warriors of Alamut. High inside a secret mountain fortress, the Nizari Ismaili, a small Muslim sect, struck terror into the powers fighting over the Holy Land in the Middle Ages.
Conclusion: A Grim Reality, Not a Game
While the image of the assassin may be exciting in fiction, the reality is a dark and disturbing aspect of the criminal world. These individuals and the networks they operate within pose a serious threat to society, and understanding their motivations and methods is crucial for law enforcement and intelligence agencies. The next time you pick up a book or play a video game featuring assassins, remember the human cost and the grim reality behind the fiction.
For further exploration of how games engage with complex social issues, be sure to visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.