The Evolving Gun Culture in America

Author: Utter, G.H / True, J.L.
Publication: Journal of American and Comparative Cultures
Topics: Legislation and Policy Ownership Public Health Public Opinion Social Science U.S. / National
Keywords: Gun culture pro-control forces pro-gun forces
Bibliographic information +

The authors examine the arguments for and against the control of firearms in the U.S. and noted how pro-gun control and anti-gun control groups have always disagreed with each other, with each group claiming to represent the views and interests of the vast majority of Americans. These groups with opposing views have ardent followers in virtually every walk of life, including scientific researchers. Whereas the anti-gun control group argues that gun ownership by private individuals is essential to the security of lives and property, the opposing group believes that the very presence of a gun increases the likelihood that violent acts, such as suicide or homicide, will occur. The authors conclude that the anti-gun control group is losing grounds in this duel and if present trends continue, what was occasionally seen as their dominance of this aspect of American politics may become a thing of the past.