Simpson’s tale of survival in Touching the Void underscores the perils of mountaineering. His account of breaking his leg, falling into a crevasse, and the numerous near-disasters preceding these accidents emphasize the sport’s perils. While the memoir is ultimately an inspiring account of survival against the odds, Simpson’s story also explores the psychology of mountaineers who actively place themselves in potentially fatal environments.

In a 2023 systematic review of mountaineering psychology, Dr. Patricia Jackman assessed data on mountaineers’ personality traits and the sensations they experience while climbing. The review notes that climbers typically display above-average mental toughness, a strong desire to test themselves, and a propensity for risk-taking and sensation-seeking activities. Jackman points out that mental toughness has both “benefits and drawbacks” in mountaineering (Jackman, Patricia C., et al. “The Psychology of Mountaineering Systematic Review.” International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 2020). She asserts that this quality is essential in providing the motivation and stamina to persevere in challenging conditions. It also enables individuals to stay calm and logical in a crisis and “facilitate[s] more adaptive coping responses” (Jackman). On the other hand, Jackman argues that mental toughness can exacerbate already dangerous situations by making individuals reluctant to give up an ascent despite signs that it would be the most reasonable course of action.