Examines all cases of suicide by fire reported in the London Times & New York Times between 1970-2. 71% occurred during 1963-72, with all cases of political self-incineration also occurring during this time. The sociocultural context in which this form of protest may occur & psychological factors in individuals who choose this method of suicide are discussed. It is suggested that the occurrence of self-incineration as a means of political protest may be yielding to more aggressive acts.