Guns Remain An Exercise In Futility

The debate over solutions to curbing the epidemic gun violence that has gripped our nation has once again become predominate.  Will this new round of discussions result in any meaningful improvements or will it only suffice in strengthening the continuation of the status quo once again? 

 Let’s begin with those who oppose any new gun laws in curbing sales or distribution. 

 The December 21 statement by “National Rifle Association” Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre, demands the solutions be framed and the debate be focused on two areas.  One reasonable but unrealistic and the other preposterous.

 He began by discussing the cultural decay that gives rise to the mental illness responsible for the atrocities.  His point was well taken in that all of the following define our current culture.

1.      A vastly diminished sense of spirituality

2.     A breakdown in respectful, dignified, civilized behavior

3.     A glorification of violence

4.    A huge proliferation and acceptance for the use of drugs – legal and illegal

5.     A once unimaginable divorce rate

6.    A breakdown in parenting and a cohesive family structure

7.     An acceptance of the refusal to hold people accountable for their behavior

In the latter portion of LaPierre’s statement, he proposes not a balanced approach with regards any restrictions on the sale and distribution of the weaponry responsible for the most efficient destruction of human life, but encouraged the use of more weapons and more bloodshed to solve the problem. Because his latter remarks were viewed by most as being disingenuous and outlandish, his credibility has been called into question.  Discrediting him as a responsible spokesman has further led to discrediting his entire message even though his opening remarks were valid.

From the gun control advocates we hear the argument that stricter gun laws should solve the problem in its entirety. 

Their focus is on greater numbers of gun laws.

1.      Limiting the size of ammunition clips

2.      Ending gun shows and private gun sales

3.      Ensuring background checks for emotional, physiological or criminal history precede all gun purchases. 

4.      The creation of a national gun owner data base

5.      Periodic license renewals to ensure existing requirements are being met at the time of renewal with updated background checks to assure no new threats have previously absent mental disorders.

The advocates believe these measures will result in saving some lives.  Maybe, yet we have no evidence that these measures can end spree shootings.  The Brady Bill has had virtually no effect in curbing the slaughter of American lives.  Our best hope of achieving that end requires reductions in the number of guns in distribution in America and strict restrictions on their availability.

   Urgency is essential here.     Unfortunately, cultural decline and mental illness - if it can even be abated at all - will take many years of study and reforms.  As for limiting and/or eliminating the weapons themselves??  Well…No one seems to be any real hurry there.