Force Science

In 2025, force encounters continued to be judged by expectations that exceed human capability—expectations shaped by hindsight, distorted video analysis, and speculative standards rather than science. In the final Force Science News issue of the year, Von Kliem examines the challenges and successes of 2025 and outlines Force Science’s priorities for 2026, grounded in peer-reviewed research, human performance realities, and honest accountability.

Force Science 2025: Identifying Human Limits and Defending Honest Accountability A look back at 2025: How hindsight, video replay, and unrealistic expectations shaped public judgment of force encounters.

“Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas.” — Peg Bracken

As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to thank the law enforcement and public safety community, our partners and colleagues, and the many supporters who engage with and stand behind our work for the trust, encouragement, and collaboration that shaped this past year. Your dedication to public service and your continued support inspire our work each and every day and strengthen our commitment to moving our mission forward.

In observance of the holiday season, Force Science offices will operate with limited hours through the New Year as our team spends time with family and loved ones. Wishing you and your families a peaceful and joyful holiday season, and a strong, safe start to the year ahead!

And that’s a wrap! Our final Force Science Certification Course of 2025 wrapped up this afternoon in Sacramento, CA, with Brian Baxter and Michael Musengo putting the finishing touches on an outstanding week of training.

One of the most unique strengths of this program is the exceptional team of experts who lead it—giving participants a firsthand look at the latest science behind human performance and behavior, paired with real-life examples that connect directly to their work in policing.

A huge thank you to our always-generous host and rock-star team at PORAC (Peace Officers Research Association of California) for welcoming us back year after year to deliver this critical training. We look forward to seeing you again in 2026!

Missed your chance to join us in person? You can still complete the training online through our self-paced option—or explore our 2026 schedule at the links below!

👉 Online Training - https://www.forcescience.com/training/force-science-certification-course/online-course/
👉 2026 Schedule - https://www.forcescience.com/training/events/

’Tis the season! Give the gift of knowledge with FREE shipping on our 460+ page Force Science – Peer-Reviewed Scientific Research book. Packed with 24 groundbreaking studies shaping training, investigations, and honest accountability in public safety. Perfect for any Force Science fan—or yourself!

Grab Yours Before the Holidays!
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Force Science Peer-Reviewed Scientific Research Book Explore "Force Science" - a research book featuring a compilation of groundbreaking scientific studies on human behavior and dynamics in force encounters

A few more snaps from the 2025 Use of Force Summit that concluded this week! This time, Force Science’s Nicole Florisi took center stage presenting “On the Razor’s Edge: The Double-Edged Impact of Empathy in Use of Force Investigations.”

During her talk, she highlighted the importance of taking a careful, evidence-based look at empathy in policing. While empathy is valuable, it can also introduce subjective and unintended pressures on officers—especially when they are encouraged to “walk a mile in everyone’s shoes.” Over time, continually absorbing others’ experiences can create a cumulative emotional burden.

As we continue exploring this topic, what else can we learn about supporting officer well-being while maintaining effective, evidence-based practices? We’re looking forward to Nicole sharing more insights in the future!

A growing number of tactical officers have raised concerns about entering a room while "searching through their sights." In the latest Force Science News, Dr. William Lewinski and CEO Brian Baxter outline how fixed focal vision compresses the visual field, reduces peripheral vision, and can delay recognition of threats—or teammates—during lethal force encounters.

Understanding Vision in Tactical Performance - Force Science Force Science experts reveal how “searching through sights” compresses vision, reduces awareness, and can delay recognition of threats or teammates in critical moments.

🔥 Packed house! Force Science Founder Dr. William Lewinski took the stage earlier today at the 2025 Use of Force Summit, delivering his eye-opening keynote: “The Advantage of Anticipation in Decision-Making in Force & Beyond.”

Police leaders from across the country filled the room to hear Dr. Lewinski break down cutting-edge insights on human performance, anticipation, and the split-second decisions that drive real-world outcomes.

Many thanks to the incredible Daigle Law Group team and all the attendees who were able to join us and make this a truly can’t-miss event! 👏

Check out the latest Blue Grit Podcast episode from TMPA, featuring Force Science’s own Brian Baxter and Von Kliem as they unpack “The Truth Behind Split-Second Decisions.”

In this roundtable conversation, they explore what truly happens during high-stress, rapidly evolving encounters—breaking down common myths and highlighting the realities behind use-of-force incidents through peer-reviewed science. They also discuss why human-performance research has become essential for investigators, trainers, attorneys, and frontline officers nationwide.

If you’ve ever wondered what drives an officer’s decision in those critical moments… this episode offers a powerful look into Force Science’s mission to understand the human being behind the badge.

#125- “FORCE SCIENCE: The Truth Behind Split-Second Decisions” In Episode #125, we welcome Brian Baxter and Von Kliem of Force Science—the organization reshaping how America understands human behavior in high-stress, spl...

“No duty is more urgent than giving thanks.” – James Allen

As we head into Thanksgiving, we’re reminded of how true those words are. Today and every day, we’re grateful for the incredible people who make our mission possible.

To our dedicated team—thank you! Your commitment, integrity, and unwavering drive are truly inspiring. Your passion for the work and the mission goes above and beyond, and we are better because of each one of you.

To our partners, supporters, and the wider community—thank you for believing in our work and standing with us. Your encouragement, trust, and collaboration help us grow, innovate, and continue making a meaningful impact where it matters most.

This season reminds us to pause and appreciate how fortunate we are. We’re grateful for the work we get to do, the people we get to do it with, and the shared purpose that brings us together.

Wishing everyone a warm, safe, and Happy Thanksgiving!

Please note that our offices will be closed for the Thanksgiving break. Normal business hours will resume on Monday, December 1st.

Will you have a little downtime between your Thanksgiving festivities? It could be a great time to start brainstorming ideas for a presentation abstract for our newly announced 2026 Force Science Conference, taking place in the Greater Austin Area of Texas!

We’re seeking insights, experience, and research that highlight the latest advancements in human performance science—and how those findings shape policing, decision-making, and use-of-force encounters. We invite you to share evidence-based perspectives, real-world case studies, and practical strategies that translate from the classroom to the street, to investigations, and to the courtroom. Your contribution can help advance officer and community safety while promoting honest accountability across the profession.

As a presenter, you’ll engage a national audience of professionals dedicated to improving outcomes in the field. Selected speakers will receive a complimentary event badge and full access to three days of learning, collaboration, and networking.

👉 Submission Deadline: February 1, 2026

⌨️ Learn more by going to https://events.forcescience.com/force-science-conference-2026 #/callforspeakers