Gun Violence And Gun Control

In recent times, gun violence and gun control have been a major topic covered by nearly all news outlets. Many people have differing opinions about what the United States should do with their Gun Control Policies. Should they be left as they are or should there be new regulations to attempt to curtail violence in America? Would laws stop crime; in other words, do criminals abide by the law? Many news outlets cover the topic of gun control differently. Special interest groups also have a large influence on the view of gun control. The abundance of media attention and special interest groups greatly affects the publics’ opinion of gun control. Background The second amendment is the heart and soul of gun rights. It is one of the original ten amendments to the constitution. “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.” That is considered one of the most complex and debated 27 word sentences ever written (Weeks). Linton Weeks brings up the controversy simply with, “Is it a sweeping constitutional guarantee that individuals have unfettered access to guns, or a practical agreement that allows for citizen armies in times of extraordinary national need?” (Weeks) In other words, should Americans be allowed to buy whatever firearms they want, when they want them without any background check? Or did the founding fathers intend it was the each states’ right to maintain a militia for its own defense. Major firearms legislation was passed in 1934 (The National Firearms Act of 1934) and again in 1986 (The Firearms Owners’ Protection Act of 1986), which set up strict requirements for the interstate transfer of firearms and essentially made “mac... ... middle of paper ... ... at night until they can't tell the difference and finally lash out.” (O'Brien and Wong) Well the ones who put school shootings on the map, Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris, two Columbine high school students. It turned out that they were not bullied at all, in fact they bragged about bullying what they called the “fags” at school. Simply put, Eric was a psychopath like you would see in a serial killer movie and Dylan was the unfortunate friend who went along with Eric’s horrific plan. (O'Brien and Wong) So, how do the media and special interest groups affect a person’s opinion of gun control? How do you, yes you, feel right now after reading this? The thoughts you are having at this very moment after reading this report is the perfect example of how the media and interest groups, among other things have rounded your and everyone else’s opinions of gun control.