Gun control refers to any policy, proposal or practice that has been designed to regulate the Possession, sale, manufacture and use of guns by the regular citizens within a nation. The United States among other European countries have modest regulations pertaining to guns. There have been a lot of cases that result from the poor handling and use of fire arms among the citizens. This is based on the recent attacks that have been witnessed in the States where armed individuals kill innocent citizens frustrating the efforts to implement the gun control. To address the gun issue, a number of questions have to be put across such as:
1. At what age should an individual hold a personal fire arm?
2. What is the background of the individual aspiring to purchase a fire arm?
3. What is the economic status of a gun holder?
4. At what level should a gun be used for self defence?
5. What is the health (mental) status of the individual?
The background of the person aspiring to purchase a fire arm should be properly analysed. Economic, religious and political background should be analysed. People with mental problem should not be allowed to possess fire arms.
The gun should only be used for self defence in instances where an individual who is legally in possession of a gun is attacked in his residence. The two original ideas according to me are scrutinising the mental status of the person who wish to possess a gun. This is because an individual who is mentally retarded is likely to misuse the gun. The person may fire the bullet at any Tom and Dick around. The second original idea is analysing the age of the person. The age limit should not be less than 35. This is because at 35 years of age, an individual is more accountable and understands better what is wrong and right.
In conclusion, the gun policy proposal should be put in place in order to avoid reckless loss of lives that has been witnessed in some countries especially America. People should be evaluated on whether they are eligible to possess guns or not. Individual’s mental status should thoroughly be evaluated in order to determine the worthiness to possess guns. However, it is also crucial to examine their political, economical and social background. Analysis of the Social background is important because it prevent handing over guns to robbers or any person who is likely to use it unlawfully.
References
Lott, J.R. (2013). More Guns, Less Crime: Understanding Crime and Gun Control Laws, Third Edition. U.S.A: University of Chicago Press.
Nisbet, L. (2001). The gun control debate: you decide. The University of Michigan: Prometheus Books.
