A genuine question for gun regulation supporters.

[Decoy of Fenris]

16. A well-thought response, and I thank you. Shall we continue?

Last edited Sat Oct 20, 2012, 05:54 PM - Edit history (1)

Firstly, let me thank you for your response, as it is exceptionally well thought and expressed.

Now, on to the body of your post. To a certain extent, I would like to agree with you, but I simply find that I cannot. Humanity, since its inception, has thrived on conflict; conflict (greed, jealousy, superiority) drives and evolves us. The greatest technological advancements of humanity are almost universally via necessity through warfare and open conflict, the need to create a better killing weapon, something that allows "us" to survive better than the other "us." Those who do not adapt and evolve their weaponry cease to be.

I believe your argument revolves around the crux of humanity as inherently good as opposed to inherently evil or inherently neutral. I will not stoop to argue such a belief, as although I believe differently, I respect your right to your own beliefs, and as with any belief, I have no proof to back it up.

Your assessment of "when guns are misused" is spot on, and I appreciate it for the complex nuances, the points often lost. It is no small thing to have a gun thrust in ones face, and you captured that element beautifully. As a purely hypothetical discussion, do you think that the same result would be achieved with a knife, or an axe, or any other killing tool had firearms not been invented? Take a look at Scotland, where you are... I believe five times more likely to be knifed to death than shot. The Homicide rate in Scotland is greater than America's by no small amount, yet despite rigid gun control laws, knives are an established weapon of both death and intimidation. Using Scotland as an example, do you believe that even if strict gun control laws are laid down, that another weapon will not rise up to take the place of firearms? (Remember, please, that knifings are more likely to be fatal than gunshot wounds. I can fetch statistics on demand, if anyone so desires. )


NOTE: My claim of Scotlands greater homicide rate is false, and what is sad is that I knew it was even when I posted this. I can only blame a head cold and a long work night. My apologies, folks. Please see Krispos' post down below to find actual statistics.