Principles-Based Instruction for Self-Defense (and Maybe Life)

In "Meditations on Violence," Rory Miller explored the gap between martial arts training and real-world violence. In "Principles-Based Instruction" he strikes at the gap between traditional teaching and effective teaching. In seven sections, Rory gives you a solid foundation in the information you must have before you teach, different methods to transfer that information, the ethics of instruction and even some hints on how to run a successful business-- and why you must.

"Where the hell was this book when I started teaching!? I could have used it...and will be better at my trade now that I do. Everything Rory writes is exceptional. But this one goes beyond. It took me exactly two and a half pages of reading to realize this. If you are an instructor (doesn't matter what subject), then this book IS required reading, no exceptions. I regret I didn't have this book before I started my instructional career! If you are simply a "student" of self-defense (if not...why not?) then it is even more important for you, as it will help you face realities that will guide your time allotments and mentor/instructor selection. Not many writers make me think, but Rory does. He will make you think. And most importantly, I believe he will help change how you think. That my friends is the key! Read this book. Re-read it! Think and act on what you learn. If you are an instructor, give yourself a hard look and fix the holes. A student, the remember the key word in self-defense is "self." It's your path, walk it wisely!" -- Mike Seeklander Owner, Shooting-Performance LLC, and founding member of the American Warrior Society

"If you teach, or want to teach, people how to defend themselves, you must read Principles-Based Instruction for Self-Defense. If I had to sum this book up in one word, it would be “brilliant.” Rory Miller has a rare and unique way of explaining the complex and whittling it down to an efficient, practical, and usable model. He does that here with the singular goal of making you, the reader, a better instructor when it comes to teaching self-defense. The information contained within these pages is invaluable as it covers many aspects of teaching others to defend themselves. It's not a book of techniques, nor is it a book about martial arts. It focuses on making you a better instructor when teaching people to survive among chaos and fear. Apply what you learn from this book and you won't only be a much better instructor, you just may save someone's life with what you teach." --Alain Burrese, J.D. Writer-Speaker-Mediator