I Support the Second Amendment [View all]

[Pototan]

Especially the "Well Regulated" part.

When I end up arguing the gun issue with a gun nut, I always ask if they can recite the amendment, word for word, that they cite.

Very rarely can they respond correctly. They all know the "the right to bear arms" part, but few, if any, can cite the "well regulated" part.

So, here's my argument: The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution reads: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."

"Well regulated Militia" can be interpreted one of two ways. It means the National Guard and "the People" who are part of that Militia are the only individuals with that "collective" right. That's not my interpretation, but I understand and respect that position.

My interpretation is that at the time of its ratification, the United States did not have a standing army. Each state had to provide their own defense. It was a rural and agrarian society. Therefore, all able-bodied men (in 1789, it was a male dominated society) were required to protect themselves, their families, their state or their community. If not by law, by culture. As a result of my interpretation, everyone was considered part of the Malatia as described in the second amendment. So, if we extend that original position, all current Americans can be considered part of a "Militia."

Under my interpretation, every American has the right to own a gun, but the government has every right to regulate that ownership in any way it sees fit. The gun should be registered. The owner should be trained and licensed. Assault weapons should be banned. Gun ownership should be for those citizens who have obtained 21 years. Ammunition should be regulated. Automatic weapons should be banned. And why the fuck should any civilian own body armor? Where is that protected in any interpretation of the 2nd Amendment. Concealed carry needs to be approved by a magistrate.

You know. "Well regulated", just like it says.