Introduction
With the media ever focused on shootings throughout the USA, which only seems to add to the fire that is the gun control debate. Shooting and even Mass shootings tear at the emotions of the populace, and the heat is on for someone to do something. The gun control debate is not new; however, many people are demanding action. Proponents of both sides of the argument tend to bring non-facts to the debate in order to persuade people to listen to their argument. Besides, the actual implication of the effectiveness of the gun control is still controversial. The American population can no longer remain silent and continue to suffer the disturbing consequences of increased crimes. There is the need of exploring this subject from a rational viewpoint to gather important information that could aid the formulation of effective policies to address this concern. There have been many valid arguments made for less gun control; however, I believe stricter gun controls can decrease the rate of crimes.
Initially, it is apparent that stricter gun control has the potential of bringing down the rate of crimes. Imposing stricter gun regulations will make the process of obtaining a gun long and tedious. This means that criminals will have greater difficulty in obtaining firearms. Such a situation is important because criminals mainly use what they can access easily. In essence, adopting stricter gun control regulations means denying criminals an important tool for committing crimes (Lott, 2010). The practice will discourage criminal activities since robbery or other criminal activities is much more challenging when one is not armed with powerful tools like guns. Furthermore, the practice will reduce the severity of the crimes committed since criminals will only commit crimes using other simple tools. Statistical reviews affirm that crimes committed using guns are most likely to result to fatalities. It is also worthwhile noting that control and prevention of crimes becomes easier when criminals are disarmed. It is indisputable that the reduced number of the guns in the circulations, the rate of crimes will decrease considerably. Imposing stricter gun control regulations translate to reducing the number of the guns in the wrong hand, which affirms the potential of this strategy in reducing crimes (Allison, 2013).
The feasibility of the ability of stricter gun control laws in reducing the numbers of crimes is supported by various studies that have explored this subject. Furthermore, real time examples that highlight the efficiency of this strategy in reducing crimes are identifiable in countries that have already imposed strict gun control laws. Studies assert that countries have strict gun control regulations have comparatively lower rates of crimes (Gold, 2004). For example, in countries like Brazil, it is illegal to be in possession of an armed weapon and having them in public places. Brazil has also implemented disarmament programs, which has assisted in reducing crime. These policies have proved to be effective since Brazil has recorded a decreasing number of crimes since the adoption of these policies. Furthermore, other countries such as Canada, England and Australia that have imposed strict gun control measures have fewer crime rates than U.S (Allison, 2013). Empirical evaluations highlight a clear relationship between the number of crimes and the strictness of the adopted gun control policies. In account of these practical examples, it is evident that states with proper and strict gun laws have fewer gun related crimes (Lott, 2010).
The significance of adopting stricter gun control measures is endorsed by studies that have shown that a simple required background check could have prevented a number of tragedies around the US. The strategy is effective because it essentially means withdrawing the guns from the hand of criminals (Mehalko, 2012). Gun control measures are capable of reducing crimes as fewer people have access to these deadly weapons. With proper gun registration, it is able to give guns to citizens who genuinely need them for self-protection. It is apparent that guns are very dangerous weapons that need to be handled cautiously. In this context, the state should be keen in controlling individuals who are allowed to own these weapons. This is in view that, although allowing citizens to own guns can reduce the number of crimes if they are used constructively, the practice can also result to increased crimes since guns can easily be misused (Lott, 2010). For example, one may get into an intense argument when probably drunk and engage in unwarranted shooting. If stricter laws were in place, a good check one one’s background and past records would help in knowing the people being issued with guns. Imposing stricter procedures for applying gun ownership would also oblige individuals to behave responsibility when issued with gun. Furthermore, applying harsh penalties on persons in possession of illegal armed weapons would discourage individuals from owning guns illegally. This will result to a situation where only responsible citizens are allowed to own guns, thus ensuring that they are being used for self-protection (Gold, 2004).
Studies highlight that a considerable number of the crimes committed using guns are committed by the youth. The youths have mainly failed to portray a responsible and mature habit when using guns. Besides, lenient gun control strategies have failed to restrict the youths from accessing guns (Mehalko, 2012). Imposing stricter gun control measures that could successfully deny young minds a chance of accessing these deadly weapons presents as a rational strategy for reducing crimes. A certain age limit should be put in issuing of guns to curb the crimes committed by the youths. This is in view that mature citizens are more likely to handle guns more appropriately (Lott, 2010).
Conclusion
The significance and the urgent need of imposing stricter gun control regulations to curb criminal activities in the U.S cannot be re-emphasized. The people opposed to this idea should think of the real implication of such a strategy instead of dismissing this important proposal ignorantly. The entire American community should wholeheartedly embrace and support policies that aim at stiffening the gun control measures to check the menace of the increased crimes. It comes down to you voting on the core issues at play at your local voting office. Nothing can be accomplished if you do not put forth the effort to facilitate change. I do respect the opinions all valid arguments and hope that a comprehensive agreement of change can be made by working together. I hope that imposing stricter gun control measures will prevent another Columbine shooting or any mass shooting for that matter. With the adoption of this proposal, I am confident that the America will be a safer and admirable country to reside.
Work Cited
Allison, T. (2014). Do Gun Laws Reduce Gun Deaths? New Study Says 'Yes,' but Data are Thin. The Christian Science Monitor: 13. Mar 07 2013. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1468665537?accountid=45049
Gold, S. D. (2004). Gun Control. New York: Benchmark Books
Lott, J., R. (2010). More Guns, Less Crime: Understanding Crime and Gun Control Laws. Chicago: University of Chicago Press
Mehalko, L. (2012). This is Gun Country: The International Implications of U.S. Gun Control Policy. Boston College International and Comparative Law Review, 35(1), 297-330. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1468665537?accountid=45049
