Originally Posted By: dnewton3
- Fact: there is correlation between crime down and gun sales up, but where correlation is easy to see, we CANNOT assume direct causation; it would need to be proven via hard data. I, for one, believe that the anecdotal data is overwhelmingly massive and cannot be ignored, but my training does not allow me to just jump to conclusions.
Bolded for emphasis since many think it is just automatically the case. One must consider all possible correlations. It may also correlate well to how much coca-cola people buy, how many TVs or cars per capita, or how many babies are born named McKenzie.
I agree overwhelming data that must have a statistically significant relationship, but you put it well in terms of reality and analysis. Well said.
Originally Posted By: dnewton3
- Fact: doctors kill waaaaaayyyyyy more people by accident than guns kill people in total; it is the third leading cause of death in the US. Homicide does not even make the top 15.
So you propose that all gun owners have to be trained, licensed, registered and carry insurance in order to operate (e.g. CCW)? After all, all those things are implemented to reduce societal risk from something that is considered utilitarian and an agent of good, that can also have deathly consequences. Slippery slope there. That said, as was mentioned above, many people aren't mentally competent to carry. I dont, because of both laws (which I work within the state the change), and also because of the consistent and well based safety of my local surroundings which allows me to to choose not to under most scenarios even if I were granted the ability. So I cant even say that I would be mentally competent to carry, even with training and the fact that Im a decent shot with a lot of training for respect of things with a LOT of power that can easily kill or even vaporize you (easier than a gun).
Originally Posted By: dnewton3
The Second Amendment does not assure equal outcome, but it most certainly recognizes the right to have equal opportunity to repel the aggressor, be it a person or a government. And so limiting access to the tools of that right is a defacto means of smothering that right.
I have no objection to those that choose not to excercise their right. But I will not tolerate those who would take it away; for that I will not stand.
Facts tell me that oppression is ever-present in history, from all levels.
Facts tell me that oppression is best held in check with equal power at any given level.
Facts tell me that more guns does not equal more violence.
Facts tell me that other risks in life far outpace those of firearms.
Quoted for truth.