Okay, so let me break down the reasons and "logic" on both sides, according to the posters already in this thread.
AGAINST GUNS:
1. Crime goes down, in theory.
2. There is no real reason to own a gun, other than hunting, and who cares about hunters.
3. Suicide by gun.
4. Idiot's with guns
EDIT: (as a favor to anti-gun people, I am not going to put in the whole " self-preservation is illogical" bit, that a user posted in the post directly before this one. you're welcome.)
FOR GUNS:
1. Crime levels would not change, in theory
2. It's a nationally protected right.
3. Suicidal people would find other ways
4. Responsible people with guns are not a danger.
5. Hunters for recreation
Let me say, I don't own a gun. I will at some point, probably buy one. Economic times are tough in America, and when times are tough, the stupid get desperate and resort to crime. And NO, the police aren't going to make it in time, in most cases.
It's important to remember that criminals in America, are distinctly different from criminals in other countries. Aside from the psycological and social aspects, which are considerable, the main thing to remember is geography. Unlike in Europe, where guns are largely banned, making neighboring countries difficult to find guns in, America doesn't have this luxury. The South American countries are some of the world's largest suppliers of illegal goods. Guns and drugs are significant exports for people in some South American countries. So, guns will continue to be provided in great supply to America, mainly due to it's close proximity, the psycological aspects of it's criminals, and it's relative wealth in comparison to other nearby countries. The sad reality is that guns are going to be staying in America, regardless of laws forbidding them.
The arguement that guns are bad because. . . well. . . . um. . there is no real reason. Crime levels changing is just a theory for either side, and both sides can site examples for their view point, but the truth is, no one really knows what would happen. The argument that most people will never need to protect themselves against an attacker, is true. But then, guns are like insurance, hopefully and probably, you won't need it, but you sure as hell don't want to be caught without it, if the worst happens. The removal of guns doesn't change suicide, people who are commited to dying, WILL find a way.
And finally, when it comes to the idiots and the irresponsible, the argument ends up going no where. Because, as pointed out already, guns are a tool. There are idiotic people who drive cars, fly planes, deliver mail, and work in hospitals. And each one of those things, ( and countless others) have been used to kill people either intentionally or by accident. So, in the end, the idiots out there, will still find a way to kill people.
"Guns are scary". I agree, and they should be taken with the utmost seriousness, but please, PLEASE, stop using that as your reason why they should be banned. Because, when you cut through the rest of your argument, that's all you've really said.
