Gun Control

Introduction

Gun control, gun violence is one of the most debated issues in America. Bearing weapons is not a new practice in America because; it is protected by the Second Amendment of the American constitution. This paper highlights the contemporary trends in gun control, legal problems pertaining to the issue, and recommendations for solving this problem that has haunted the American public for centuries (Egendorf 2005, 11).

Importance of gun control and gun violence

Because of the increase in crime rates in the Western world, the gun violence has gained an international exposure. Thus, the governments are forced to implement legislations focusing on the control of guns and other weapons used in crimes. A comparative study of 13 countries, which was conducted by a team of researchers, showed that the crime rates in these countries have steadily increased during the past five years. Legislation against gun violence has had a positive impact on the control of violence and the crimes, in which a weapon was used, showed a declining tendency.

Prevalence of Gun Violence in Society

There are many factors that have contributed to the prevailing culture, in America in general, and Chicago in particular. Racial discrimination and segregation has led to the prevalence of gun violence in non-white communities. In a study, conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, (FBI), most of the black youngsters, (68 percent approximately), aged between 12 to 15 years were found to commit a crime with a handgun. The percentage among the white was nominal and stood at 10 percent only. Violent television programs have played a vital role in enticing the youth to acquire a gun and commit a crime, just like the character was portraying, while playing the role. This is blatant brainwashing and has influenced the psyche of the youth to such an extent that they have become hypnotized. Poverty and lack of facilities also provoke a sense of insecurity among individuals, who possess an ethnic background. Most of families are living below the poverty line. The adolescents use different tactics, including theft, murder, robbery, and other illegal means to acquire a gun. Gun violence has affected not only the adults but children. It is reported that in the year 2000, approximately 3,500 students were expelled from their schools on account of possessing or showing a gun or any other firearm. The situation is alarming and needs immediate attention (Correa 2001, 25).

Empirical Evidence

John Lott, Don Kates, and Gary Kleck provide strong evidence that gun ownership helps in reducing crime. They conclude that concealed handgun laws aid in the reduction of crimes of the violent nature and mass shootings are made very difficult especially in urban areas. They also reject the claim that armed criminals are more likely to attack an armed victim. They also refute the claim that the number of gun related accidents will rise and even if they do, the numbers will be negligible in contrast to the intended use of handguns (Lott 2008, 48).

Advantages and Disadvantages of Gun Control Legislations

The enforcement ...