Includes bibliographical references (p. [161]-165) and index.

Introduction: Mass murder and its classifications -- Howard Unruh: America's first modern mass killer -- Buildup to horror -- The classic mass murderer -- Mental illness and the compulsive killer -- Deadly children -- Family massacres -- Going postal: the disgruntled employee -- Visionary mass murder: religion and politics -- Spreading the damage -- Murder on the side -- Stress, murder, madness, and risk assessment.

From Waco to Columbine High School, Ramsdale examines the phenomenon of mass murder and reveals the distinct psychologocial dynamics of perpetrators of this crime. Arguing that mass killers can be identified before they strike, the author provides common red flags that may identify these criminals before they embark on their missions of violence.